2008 Audi A3 vs. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 (185 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A3 weights approximately 5 kg more than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Because 2008 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. 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 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. 2008 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 has manual transmission. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 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 | 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | A3 | 280 |
Year Released | 2008 | 1980 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1968 cc | 2746 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 185 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 320 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 78.8 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
Top Speed | 205 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 1500 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4400 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1800 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1310 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2460 mm |