2009 Audi A3 vs. 1972 Mercedes-Benz E
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 E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Mercedes-Benz E (158 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 2009 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 150 kg more than 2009 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Mercedes-Benz E 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 E. 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, 1972 Mercedes-Benz E (230 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A3. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1972 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 1972 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | E |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1266 kg | 1416 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2760 mm |
