2008 Audi A3 vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz S
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 S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,998 cc (5 cylinders), 1978 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A3 (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (114 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 710 kg more than 2008 Audi A3.
Because 2008 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (231 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 S.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 1978 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | S |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 2998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 2215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2870 mm |
