1987 Audi 90 vs. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 1987 Audi 90 is newer by 14 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 2,778 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 (170 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1987 Audi 90. (135 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 1987 Audi 90. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Audi 90 weights approximately 15 kg more than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Because 1987 Audi 90 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Audi 90 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, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Audi 90. (186 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Audi 90.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Audi 90 | 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 90 | 280 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2309 cc | 2778 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 86.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1295 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 64 L |
