1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 vs. 2008 Audi A6
To start off, 2008 Audi A6 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 would be higher. At 3,818 cc (8 cylinders), 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A6 (252 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380. (218 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A6 should accelerate faster than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 weights approximately 20 kg more than 2008 Audi A6.
Because 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 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 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Audi A6, 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, 2008 Audi A6 (330 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380. (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 | 2008 Audi A6 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
| Model | 380 | A6 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3818 cc | 3122 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 218 HP | 252 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 84.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.8 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 13.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2820 mm | 2850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 70 L |
