2009 Audi A3 vs. 1983 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1983 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 1983 Mercedes-Benz S. (154 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1983 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 75 kg more than 2009 Audi A3.
Because 1983 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1983 Mercedes-Benz S. 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 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Mercedes-Benz S. (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Mercedes-Benz S. 2009 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1983 Mercedes-Benz S has manual transmission. 1983 Mercedes-Benz S 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 | 1983 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | S |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1983 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1982 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 154 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 223 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| 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 | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2950 mm |
