1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 vs. 2009 Audi A6
To start off, 2009 Audi A6 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 would be higher. At 3,818 cc (8 cylinders), 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A6 (247 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380. (215 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A6 should accelerate faster than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A6 weights approximately 124 kg more than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Audi A6 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Audi A6 (351 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380. (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 | 2009 Audi A6 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
| Model | 380 | A6 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3818 cc | 2671 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 351 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.8 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Top Speed | 216 km/hour | 246 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1596 kg | 1720 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 70 L |
