1979 Mercedes-Benz 250 vs. 2011 Audi R8
To start off, 2011 Audi R8 is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz 250. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz 250 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 387 more horse power than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 250. (138 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Audi R8 should accelerate faster than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 250. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Audi R8 weights approximately 325 kg more than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 250. 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 1979 Mercedes-Benz 250. 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 330 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 250. (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2011 Audi R8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 250. 2011 Audi R8 has automatic transmission and 1979 Mercedes-Benz 250 has manual transmission. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 250 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:
| 1979 Mercedes-Benz 250 | 2011 Audi R8 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
| Model | 250 | R8 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2525 cc | 5200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 10 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 525 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 8000 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 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 | 1360 kg | 1685 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4435 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1252 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2649 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 90 L |
