2009 Audi A3 vs. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 200
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mercedes-Benz 200. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mercedes-Benz 200 would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Mercedes-Benz 200 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 200. (108 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 200. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A3 weights approximately 135 kg more than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 200. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 Mercedes-Benz 200 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 1980 Mercedes-Benz 200. 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 110 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 200. (170 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 200. 2009 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1980 Mercedes-Benz 200 has manual transmission. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 200 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 | 1980 Mercedes-Benz 200 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | 200 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1982 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 236 km/hour | 168 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7 seconds | 14.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 1350 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 Consumption Overall | 7.7 L/100km | 8.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 65 L |
