2009 Audi A3 vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 4,195 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (275 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 2009 Audi A3. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1060 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 2009 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A3. (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Audi A3 | 1996 Mercedes-Benz S | |
Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | A3 | S |
Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1983 cc | 4195 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 275 HP |
Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 281 Nm | 400 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3900 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 92 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 78.9 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1990 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 5120 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1890 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1490 mm |