2007 Audi A3 vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 600
To start off, 2007 Audi A3 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mercedes-Benz 600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mercedes-Benz 600 would be higher. At 6,329 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 Mercedes-Benz 600 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Mercedes-Benz 600 (247 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 2007 Audi A3. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mercedes-Benz 600 should accelerate faster than 2007 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 600 weights approximately 890 kg more than 2007 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Mercedes-Benz 600 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 1978 Mercedes-Benz 600. 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, 1978 Mercedes-Benz 600 (500 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 219 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Audi A3. (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1978 Mercedes-Benz 600 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Audi A3 | 1978 Mercedes-Benz 600 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | 600 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 6329 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 500 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 103 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 95 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1880 kg | 2770 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 6250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1960 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 3910 mm |
