2008 Audi A3 vs. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300
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 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A3 (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300. (113 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A3 weights approximately 42 kg more than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 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 300. 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 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300. (185 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | 300 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 22.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 207 km/hour | 184 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1452 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
