2012 Audi A3 vs. 1975 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2012 Audi A3 is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 6,834 cc (8 cylinders), 1975 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1975 Mercedes-Benz S (283 HP @ 4250 RPM) has 83 more horse power than 2012 Audi A3. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1975 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2012 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1975 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 960 kg more than 2012 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1975 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 1975 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, 1975 Mercedes-Benz S (549 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 269 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Audi A3. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1975 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
2012 Audi A3 | 1975 Mercedes-Benz S | |
Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | A3 | S |
Year Released | 2012 | 1975 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2000 cc | 6834 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 283 HP |
Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4250 RPM |
Torque | 280 Nm | 549 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3000 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 | 2420 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 |