2001 Audi A8 vs. 1982 Mercedes-Benz 500
To start off, 2001 Audi A8 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Mercedes-Benz 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Mercedes-Benz 500 would be higher. At 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1982 Mercedes-Benz 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Audi A8 (271 HP @ 3750 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1982 Mercedes-Benz 500. (231 HP @ 4750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1982 Mercedes-Benz 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Audi A8 weights approximately 250 kg more than 1982 Mercedes-Benz 500. 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 1982 Mercedes-Benz 500. 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, 1982 Mercedes-Benz 500 (405 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Audi A8. (320 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1982 Mercedes-Benz 500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Audi A8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Audi A8 | 1982 Mercedes-Benz 500 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | 500 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3936 cc | 4973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 271 HP | 231 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3750 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 405 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1860 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 90 L |
