2007 Audi A3 vs. 1990 Mercedes-Benz 500
To start off, 2007 Audi A3 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Mercedes-Benz 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Mercedes-Benz 500 would be higher. At 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1990 Mercedes-Benz 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Mercedes-Benz 500 (326 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 177 more horse power than 2007 Audi A3. (149 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 Mercedes-Benz 500 should accelerate faster than 2007 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Mercedes-Benz 500 weights approximately 425 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 1990 Mercedes-Benz 500 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 1990 Mercedes-Benz 500. 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, 1990 Mercedes-Benz 500 (480 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 280 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Audi A3. (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1990 Mercedes-Benz 500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Audi A3. 2007 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1990 Mercedes-Benz 500 has manual transmission. 1990 Mercedes-Benz 500 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Audi A3 | 1990 Mercedes-Benz 500 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | 500 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 4973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 149 HP | 326 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 480 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 209 km/hour | 251 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1305 kg | 1730 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2810 mm |
