2000 Audi A8 vs. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450
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 450. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 would be higher. At 4,520 cc (8 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 (225 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 2000 Audi A8. (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 should accelerate faster than 2000 Audi A8.
Because 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 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 450. 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, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 (378 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Audi A8. (300 Nm @ 8200 RPM). This means 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Audi A8. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 has automatic transmission and 2000 Audi A8 has manual transmission. 2000 Audi A8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Audi A8 | 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | 450 |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2976 cc | 4520 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 225 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 378 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 8200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 242 km/hour | 211 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5190 mm | 4970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2870 mm |
