2009 Audi A3 vs. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (197 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280. (174 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 630 kg more than 2009 Audi A3.
Because 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 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 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280. 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 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280. (233 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Audi A3 | 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | A3 | 280 |
Year Released | 2009 | 1976 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1948 cc | 2746 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 197 HP | 174 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 280 Nm | 233 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 86.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 78.8 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.7:1 |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.1 seconds | 10.1 seconds |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1560 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4760 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1800 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1340 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2830 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 90 L |