2001 Audi A8 vs. 1979 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2001 Audi A8 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,976 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Audi A8 (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1979 Mercedes-Benz S. (158 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1979 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Audi A8 weights approximately 300 kg more than 1979 Mercedes-Benz S. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 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 1979 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 (300 Nm @ 8200 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mercedes-Benz S. (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2001 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
2001 Audi A8 | 1979 Mercedes-Benz S | |
Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | A8 | S |
Year Released | 2001 | 1979 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2976 cc | 2746 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 217 HP | 158 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 300 Nm | 223 Nm |
Torque RPM | 8200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.7:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1910 kg | 1610 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5190 mm | 4740 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1880 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2860 mm |