2001 Audi A8 vs. 1968 Mercedes-Benz SE
To start off, 2001 Audi A8 is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Mercedes-Benz SE. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Mercedes-Benz SE would be higher. At 3,936 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Audi A8 (271 HP @ 3750 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 1968 Mercedes-Benz SE. (169 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1968 Mercedes-Benz SE. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Audi A8 weights approximately 400 kg more than 1968 Mercedes-Benz SE. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1968 Mercedes-Benz SE. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Audi A8 will offer significantly more control. 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 A8 (320 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Mercedes-Benz SE. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2001 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Mercedes-Benz SE.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Audi A8 | 1968 Mercedes-Benz SE | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | SE |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1968 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3936 cc | 2778 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 271 HP | 169 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3750 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1860 kg | 1460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 65 L |
