2007 Audi A3 vs. 1990 Mercedes-Benz S
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 S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 5,547 cc (8 cylinders), 1990 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Mercedes-Benz S (297 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 2007 Audi A3. (247 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2007 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 315 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 2007 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1990 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 1990 Mercedes-Benz S (463 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 143 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1990 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Audi A3. 1990 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2007 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2007 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1990 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Audi A3 | 1990 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | S |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3187 cc | 5547 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 297 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 463 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.9 mm | 94.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1495 kg | 1810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2950 mm |
