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 (247 HP @ 4150 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. (185 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 165 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 (321 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. (240 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. 1999 Audi A4 has automatic transmission and 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 has manual transmission. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Audi A4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
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 | 247 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4150 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 321 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.5 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1335 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2460 mm |
