1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2011 Audi R8
To start off, 2011 Audi R8 is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 5,200 cc (10 cylinders), 2011 Audi R8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Audi R8 (525 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 369 more horse power than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (156 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Audi R8 should accelerate faster than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Audi R8 weights approximately 125 kg more than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 Audi R8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Audi R8 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, 2011 Audi R8 (530 Nm @ 6500 RPM) has 307 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Audi R8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. 2011 Audi R8 has automatic transmission and 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 has manual transmission. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Audi R8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 2011 Audi R8 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
| Model | 280 | R8 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 5200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 10 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 156 HP | 525 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 8000 RPM |
| Torque | 223 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1685 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4435 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1252 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2649 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 90 L |
