2008 Audi A3 vs. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,962 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 (185 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 310 kg more than 2008 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 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 1986 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, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 (260 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 112 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A3. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | 300 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1593 cc | 2962 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.9 seconds | 8.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 1590 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 72 L |
