2007 Audi S3 vs. 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 2007 Audi S3 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,962 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Audi S3 (262 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300. (231 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Audi S3 should accelerate faster than 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 35 kg more than 2007 Audi S3.
Because 2007 Audi S3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Audi S3 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, 2007 Audi S3 (350 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300. (273 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2007 Audi S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300. 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 has automatic transmission and 2007 Audi S3 has manual transmission. 2007 Audi S3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Audi S3 | 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S3 | 300 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 2962 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 262 HP | 231 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 273 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 88.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1455 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2810 mm |
