2007 Audi A3 vs. 1979 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2007 Audi A3 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Mercedes-Benz S (158 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 2007 Audi A3. (139 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2007 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 160 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 1979 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1979 Mercedes-Benz S. 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 @ 1750 RPM) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mercedes-Benz S. (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2007 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
2007 Audi A3 | 1979 Mercedes-Benz S | |
Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | A3 | S |
Year Released | 2007 | 1979 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1968 cc | 2746 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 139 HP | 158 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 320 Nm | 223 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 8.7:1 |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1610 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4740 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1880 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2860 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 85 L |