2008 Audi A3 vs. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 250
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mercedes-Benz 250. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz 250 would be higher. At 2,497 cc (5 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz 250 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 250. (94 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 250. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A3 weights approximately 175 kg more than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 250. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 Mercedes-Benz 250 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 1985 Mercedes-Benz 250. 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 123 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 250. (158 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 250.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 1985 Mercedes-Benz 250 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | 250 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 158 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 22.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 209 km/hour | 175 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.1 seconds | 16.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1545 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2810 mm |
