2009 Audi S3 vs. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420
To start off, 2009 Audi S3 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 would be higher. At 4,196 cc (8 cylinders), 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi S3 (252 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420. (231 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi S3 should accelerate faster than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 weights approximately 170 kg more than 2009 Audi S3.
Because 2009 Audi S3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Audi S3 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 S3 (331 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420. (327 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Audi S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 has automatic transmission and 2009 Audi S3 has manual transmission. 2009 Audi S3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi S3 | 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S3 | 420 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 4196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 252 HP | 231 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 331 Nm | 327 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 78.9 mm |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1455 kg | 1625 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1410 mm | 2010 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1770 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 3080 mm |
