2009 Audi A3 vs. 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300
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 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,962 cc (6 cylinders), 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (197 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300. (185 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 600 kg more than 2009 Audi A3.
Because 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Audi A3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 will offer significantly more control. 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 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300. (260 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | 300 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1948 cc | 2962 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4400 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 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.1 seconds | 9.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.9 L/100km | 9.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 72 L |
