2007 Audi A3 vs. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2007 Audi A3 is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,778 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 (170 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 2007 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2007 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Audi A3 weights approximately 210 kg more than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Because 2007 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Audi A3 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, 2007 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2007 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. 2007 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 has manual transmission. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Audi A3 | 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | 280 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1967 cc | 2778 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 86.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 205 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 1295 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 64 L |
