2009 Audi A3 vs. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300
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 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 3,005 cc (5 cylinders), 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300. (80 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 179 kg more than 2009 Audi A3.
Because 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300 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 300. 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, 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300 (171 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A3. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | 300 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 3005 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 80 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 171 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 92.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 21.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 148 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1266 kg | 1445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 65 L |
