2009 Audi A3 vs. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 190
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Mercedes-Benz 190. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Mercedes-Benz 190 would be higher. At 2,299 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Mercedes-Benz 190 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 190. (132 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 190. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 190 weights approximately 325 kg more than 2009 Audi A3.
Because 1986 Mercedes-Benz 190 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 1986 Mercedes-Benz 190. 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 122 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 190. (198 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 190.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 1986 Mercedes-Benz 190 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | 190 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 2299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 132 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 198 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 895 kg | 1220 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
