2008 Audi A3 vs. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,997 cc (5 cylinders), 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A3 (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. (87 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A3 weights approximately 100 kg more than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. 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 148 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. (172 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. 2008 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 has manual transmission. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Audi A3 | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | A3 | 300 |
Year Released | 2008 | 1979 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1966 cc | 2997 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 87 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 320 Nm | 172 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 90.9 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 92.4 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 21.0:1 |
Top Speed | 205 km/hour | 155 km/hour |
Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1545 kg | 1445 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4730 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2800 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 65 L |