2008 Audi A3 vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 would be higher. At 2,398 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 weights approximately 390 kg more than 2008 Audi A3.
Because 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 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 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. 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, 2008 Audi A3 (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. (137 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | 240 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 2398 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 72 HP |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 90.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 92.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 21.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 8 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 1565 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4180 mm | 5360 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 3430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 65 L |
