2008 Audi A3 vs. 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500 would be higher. At 4,971 cc (8 cylinders), 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500 (326 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (250 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500 should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500 weights approximately 557 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 2008 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500. 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, 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500 (480 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | 500 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3196 cc | 4971 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 250 HP | 326 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 480 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.9 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1455 kg | 2012 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 5220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 3150 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
