2006 Audi A3 vs. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500
To start off, 2006 Audi A3 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500 would be higher. At 4,972 cc (8 cylinders), 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500 (237 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 2006 Audi A3. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500 should accelerate faster than 2006 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A3 weights approximately 365 kg more than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500.
Because 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Audi A3, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500 (402 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 121 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Audi A3. (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Audi A3. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500 has automatic transmission and 2006 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2006 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2006 Audi A3 | 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500 | |
Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | A3 | 500 |
Year Released | 2006 | 1980 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1981 cc | 4972 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 237 HP |
Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 281 Nm | 402 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 96.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 85 mm |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1880 kg | 1515 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4760 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1800 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1340 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2820 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 90 L |