2001 Audi A8 vs. 1973 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2001 Audi A8 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 3,695 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Audi A8 (256 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1973 Mercedes-Benz S. (182 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1973 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Audi A8 weights approximately 220 kg more than 1973 Mercedes-Benz S. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Mercedes-Benz S 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 S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2001 Audi A8 (350 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 117 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz S. (233 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2001 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
2001 Audi A8 | 1973 Mercedes-Benz S | |
Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | A8 | S |
Year Released | 2001 | 1973 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3695 cc | 2746 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 256 HP | 182 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 350 Nm | 233 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84.5 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 82.4 mm | 78.8 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 1610 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4970 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1880 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2870 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 65 L |