2009 Audi A3 vs. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450
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 450. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 would be higher. At 4,520 cc (8 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 2009 Audi A3. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 weights approximately 735 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 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 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 450. 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, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 (359 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A3. (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | 450 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 4520 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 359 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1765 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 5070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2970 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 95 L |
