2008 Audi A3 vs. 1979 Mercedes-Benz S
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 S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1979 Mercedes-Benz S. (158 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1979 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 335 kg more than 2008 Audi A3.
Because 1979 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1979 Mercedes-Benz S. 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 (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mercedes-Benz S. (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Audi A3 | 1979 Mercedes-Benz S | |
Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | A3 | S |
Year Released | 2008 | 1979 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1981 cc | 2746 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 158 HP |
Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 281 Nm | 223 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.7:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 1610 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4740 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1880 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2860 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 85 L |