2007 Audi A3 vs. 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2007 Audi A3 is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,744 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280. (182 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 30 kg more than 2007 Audi A3.
Because 2007 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1974 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 (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 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 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Audi A3 | 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | 280 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 2744 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 238 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 90 L |
