2006 Audi S3 vs. 1979 Mercury Grand Marquis
To start off, 2006 Audi S3 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercury Grand Marquis. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercury Grand Marquis would be higher. At 4,186 cc (8 cylinders), 1979 Mercury Grand Marquis is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi S3 (222 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1979 Mercury Grand Marquis. (118 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi S3 should accelerate faster than 1979 Mercury Grand Marquis. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mercury Grand Marquis weights approximately 250 kg more than 2006 Audi S3.
Because 2006 Audi S3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Mercury Grand Marquis. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Audi S3 will offer significantly more control. 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 S3 (280 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mercury Grand Marquis. (262 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2006 Audi S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mercury Grand Marquis.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi S3 | 1979 Mercury Grand Marquis | |
| Make | Audi | Mercury |
| Model | S3 | Grand Marquis |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 4186 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 222 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 262 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1680 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2910 mm |
