1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2003 Audi A6
To start off, 2003 Audi A6 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,976 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Audi A6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Audi A6 (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. (182 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Audi A6 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Audi A6 weights approximately 170 kg more than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Audi A6 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Audi A6 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, 2003 Audi A6 (320 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Audi A6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 2003 Audi A6 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
| Model | 280 | A6 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 2976 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 182 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 238 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.8 seconds | 7.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1475 kg | 1645 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 70 L |
