2009 Audi A3 vs. 1974 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,744 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. (156 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 680 kg more than 2009 Audi A3.
Because 1974 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. 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 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Audi A3 | 1974 Mercedes-Benz S | |
Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | A3 | S |
Year Released | 2009 | 1974 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1984 cc | 2744 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 197 HP | 156 HP |
Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 280 Nm | 223 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 78.8 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.7:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1610 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4970 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1880 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2870 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 85 L |