2012 Audi A3 vs. 1973 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2012 Audi A3 is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1973 Mercedes-Benz S. (182 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1973 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 150 kg more than 2012 Audi A3.
Because 1973 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 1973 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Audi A3 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz S. (233 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2012 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
2012 Audi A3 | 1973 Mercedes-Benz S | |
Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | A3 | S |
Year Released | 2012 | 1973 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2000 cc | 2746 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 182 HP |
Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 280 Nm | 233 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1610 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4970 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1763 mm | 1880 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1422 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2578 mm | 2870 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 65 L |