2007 Audi A3 vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2007 Audi A3 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 4,195 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (275 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 2007 Audi A3. (247 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2007 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 465 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 1996 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
2007 Audi A3 | 1996 Mercedes-Benz S | |
Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | A3 | S |
Year Released | 2007 | 1996 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3189 cc | 4195 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 247 HP | 275 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 320 Nm | 400 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3900 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1990 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 5120 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1890 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1490 mm |