2008 Audi A3 vs. 1972 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 1,988 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A3 (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1972 Mercedes-Benz E. (94 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1972 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 50 kg more than 2008 Audi A3.
Because 1972 Mercedes-Benz E 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 1972 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 1972 Mercedes-Benz E (159 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A3. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1972 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Audi A3 | 1972 Mercedes-Benz E | |
Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | A3 | E |
Year Released | 2008 | 1972 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1593 cc | 1988 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 101 HP | 94 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 148 Nm | 159 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2800 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 1330 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4700 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2760 mm |