2001 Audi A8 vs. 1981 Mercedes-Benz G
To start off, 2001 Audi A8 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mercedes-Benz G. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mercedes-Benz G would be higher. At 2,770 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Audi A8 (190 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1981 Mercedes-Benz G. (125 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1981 Mercedes-Benz G. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Mercedes-Benz G weights approximately 420 kg more than 2001 Audi A8.
Because 1981 Mercedes-Benz G is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2001 Audi A8. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Mercedes-Benz G 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 (280 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mercedes-Benz G. (186 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2001 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mercedes-Benz G. 2001 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 1981 Mercedes-Benz G has manual transmission. 1981 Mercedes-Benz G will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Audi A8 | 1981 Mercedes-Benz G | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | G |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2770 cc | 2299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 125 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 186 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1940 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3020 mm | 2860 mm |
