2009 Audi A3 vs. 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 would be higher. At 3,839 cc (8 cylinders), 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 (205 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 2009 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 weights approximately 720 kg more than 2009 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 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 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380. 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 @ 2500 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380. (315 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380. 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 has automatic transmission and 2009 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2009 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | 380 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 3839 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 205 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81.1 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 78.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 895 kg | 1615 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 5140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 3080 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 90 L |
