2007 Audi A3 vs. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420
To start off, 2007 Audi A3 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 would be higher. At 4,196 cc (8 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Audi A3 (247 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. (218 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Audi A3 weights approximately 14 kg more than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. 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 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. 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, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 (329 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Audi A3 | 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | 420 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3189 cc | 4196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 218 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 329 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 212 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.4 seconds | 9 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1614 kg | 1600 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 5070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2850 mm |
