2009 Audi A3 vs. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 200
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mercedes-Benz 200. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mercedes-Benz 200 would be higher. At 1,987 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz 200 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (197 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 200. (93 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 200. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 200 weights approximately 400 kg more than 2009 Audi A3.
Because 1973 Mercedes-Benz 200 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 1973 Mercedes-Benz 200. 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 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 124 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 200. (156 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 200.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 1973 Mercedes-Benz 200 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | 200 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1948 cc | 1987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 93 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 156 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.1 seconds | 15.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 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 |
