2007 Audi A3 vs. 1972 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2007 Audi A3 is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 1,988 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Audi A3 (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1972 Mercedes-Benz E. (94 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1972 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Audi A3 weights approximately 14 kg more than 1972 Mercedes-Benz E. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Mercedes-Benz E 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 1972 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2007 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 161 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Mercedes-Benz E. (159 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2007 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Mercedes-Benz E.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Audi A3 | 1972 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | E |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 159 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1344 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2760 mm |
