2009 Audi A3 vs. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,997 cc (5 cylinders), 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. (87 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 145 kg more than 2009 Audi A3.
Because 1979 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 1979 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, 2009 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 148 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. (172 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. 2009 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 has manual transmission. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Audi A3 | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | A3 | 300 |
Year Released | 2009 | 1979 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1968 cc | 2997 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 87 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 320 Nm | 172 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 90.9 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 92.4 mm |
Top Speed | 207 km/hour | 155 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1445 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4730 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2800 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 65 L |