2000 Audi A8 vs. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420
To start off, 2000 Audi A8 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 would be higher. At 4,196 cc (8 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 (218 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 2000 Audi A8. (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 should accelerate faster than 2000 Audi A8.
Because 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 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 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. 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, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 (329 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Audi A8. (300 Nm @ 8200 RPM). This means 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Audi A8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Audi A8 | 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | 420 |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2976 cc | 4196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 218 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 329 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 8200 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 242 km/hour | 212 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5190 mm | 5070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2850 mm |
