2006 Audi A3 vs. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 560
To start off, 2006 Audi A3 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Mercedes-Benz 560. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Mercedes-Benz 560 would be higher. At 5,547 cc (8 cylinders), 1986 Mercedes-Benz 560 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 560 (142 HP @ 4750 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 2006 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 560 should accelerate faster than 2006 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 560 weights approximately 354 kg more than 2006 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 Mercedes-Benz 560 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 1986 Mercedes-Benz 560. 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, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 560 (454 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 306 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Audi A3. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1986 Mercedes-Benz 560 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Audi A3. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 560 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. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 560 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A3 | 1986 Mercedes-Benz 560 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | 560 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1593 cc | 5547 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 142 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 454 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 94.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 240 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1265 kg | 1619 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2460 mm |
