2009 Audi A3 vs. 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4 would be higher. At 2,307 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4. (108 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A3 weights approximately 40 kg more than 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4 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 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4. 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 (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4. (186 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4. 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4 has automatic transmission and 2009 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2009 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | 230.4 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 2307 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 186 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 93.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 214 km/hour | 165 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.1 seconds | 13.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 65 L |
