2009 Audi A3 vs. 1991 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 3,198 cc (6 cylinders), 1991 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Mercedes-Benz 300 (231 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 2009 Audi A3. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 870 kg more than 2009 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1991 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 1991 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, 1991 Mercedes-Benz 300 (310 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A3. (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1991 Mercedes-Benz 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A3. 2009 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1991 Mercedes-Benz 300 has manual transmission. 1991 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 | 1991 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | 300 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 3198 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 231 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 84 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 | 1900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 5110 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 3050 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 100 L |
