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 3,189 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Audi A3 (247 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (185 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Audi A3 weights approximately 106 kg more than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 @ 2500 RPM) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (238 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.
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 | 3189 cc | 2745 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 238 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.9 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1614 kg | 1508 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 78 L |
