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 5,987 cc (12 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (389 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 142 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 745 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 (570 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 250 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. 1996 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. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2007 Audi A3 | 1996 Mercedes-Benz S | |
Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | A3 | S |
Year Released | 2007 | 1996 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3187 cc | 5987 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 247 HP | 389 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 320 Nm | 570 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 89 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 95.9 mm | 80.2 mm |
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 | 2240 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 5070 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1920 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2890 mm |