2002 Audi A8 vs. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2002 Audi A8 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 3,936 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Audi A8 (271 HP @ 3750 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (185 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Audi A8 weights approximately 325 kg more than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 (238 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Audi A8. (225 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Audi A8. 2002 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 has manual transmission. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2002 Audi A8 | 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | A8 | 280 |
Year Released | 2002 | 1973 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3936 cc | 2746 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 271 HP | 185 HP |
Engine RPM | 3750 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 225 Nm | 238 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 86.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 78.8 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1940 kg | 1615 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4970 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1870 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2870 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 95 L |