1999 Audi A4 vs. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 1999 Audi A4 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Audi A4 (252 HP @ 4150 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. (182 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 255 kg more than 1999 Audi A4.
Because 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 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 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Audi A4, 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, 1999 Audi A4 (330 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. (233 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1999 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Audi A4 | 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A4 | 280 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 252 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4150 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 192 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 13.1 seconds | 11 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 90 L |
