2000 Audi A8 vs. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2000 Audi A8 is newer by 27 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 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Audi A8 (247 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (185 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Audi A8 weights approximately 15 kg more than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 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 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2000 Audi A8, 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, 2000 Audi A8 (330 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (238 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2000 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Audi A8 | 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | 280 |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 238 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.3 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1615 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2870 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 95 L |
