2009 Audi A3 vs. 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,495 cc (6 cylinders), 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL. (150 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 330 kg more than 2009 Audi A3.
Because 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Audi A3 (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL. (216 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Audi A3 | 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | A3 | SL |
Year Released | 2009 | 1968 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1983 cc | 2495 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 150 HP |
Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 281 Nm | 216 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 82 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 78.8 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1360 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4290 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1310 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2410 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 65 L |