2000 Audi A8 vs. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380
To start off, 2000 Audi A8 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 would be higher. At 3,818 cc (8 cylinders), 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 (219 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 130 more horse power than 2000 Audi A8. (89 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 should accelerate faster than 2000 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Audi A8 weights approximately 120 kg more than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380.
Because 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 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 380. 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 (380 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380. (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2000 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Audi A8 | 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | 380 |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 3818 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 219 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 380 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.3 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 71.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 225 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1660 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 90 L |
