2001 Audi A6 vs. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2001 Audi A6 is newer by 28 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 2,974 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Audi A6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Audi A6 (216 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (185 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Audi A6 should accelerate faster than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Audi A6 weights approximately 12 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, 2001 Audi A6, 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, 2001 Audi A6 (300 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (238 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2001 Audi A6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Audi A6 | 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A6 | 280 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2974 cc | 2745 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 216 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 238 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1520 kg | 1508 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 78 L |
