2009 Audi A3 vs. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,962 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300. (188 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 310 kg more than 2009 Audi A3.
Because 1985 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 1985 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 (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300. (260 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300. 2009 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 has manual transmission. 1985 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 | 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | 300 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 2962 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 188 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 88.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2810 mm |
