2009 Audi A3 vs. 1995 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,797 cc (6 cylinders), 1995 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1995 Mercedes-Benz S. (190 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1995 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 960 kg more than 2009 Audi A3.
Because 1995 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1995 Mercedes-Benz S. 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 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Mercedes-Benz S. (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 1995 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | S |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1995 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 2797 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 73.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1890 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 5120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 70 L |
