2001 Audi A8 vs. 1980 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2001 Audi A8 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 3,818 cc (8 cylinders), 1980 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Mercedes-Benz S (218 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 2001 Audi A8. (190 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2001 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 85 kg more than 2001 Audi A8. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 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 1980 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, 1980 Mercedes-Benz S (306 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Audi A8. (280 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1980 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Audi A8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Audi A8 | 1980 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | S |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2770 cc | 3818 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 218 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 306 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1595 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3020 mm | 2950 mm |
