2009 Audi A3 vs. 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 would be higher. At 2,299 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230. (134 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 weights approximately 315 kg more than 2009 Audi A3.
Because 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 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 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230. 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 76 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230. (205 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | 230 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 2299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 205 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 8.4 L/100km | 9.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 10.7 L/100km | 11.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.8 L/100km | 8.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
