2006 Audi A3 vs. 1988 Mercedes-Benz G
To start off, 2006 Audi A3 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Mercedes-Benz G. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Mercedes-Benz G would be higher. At 2,297 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Mercedes-Benz G is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi A3 (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1988 Mercedes-Benz G. (125 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1988 Mercedes-Benz G. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Mercedes-Benz G weights approximately 500 kg more than 2006 Audi A3.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2006 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 134 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Mercedes-Benz G. (186 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Mercedes-Benz G.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A3 | 1988 Mercedes-Benz G | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | G |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 2297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 125 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 186 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 80.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1940 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2410 mm |
