2002 Audi A8 vs. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 2002 Audi A8 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300 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 191 more horse power than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300. (80 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Audi A8 weights approximately 495 kg more than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300. 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 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300. 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, 2002 Audi A8 (225 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300. (171 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2002 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300. 2002 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300 has manual transmission. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300 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 | 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | 300 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3936 cc | 3005 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 271 HP | 80 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 171 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 92.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 21.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 148 km/hour |
| 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 | 1445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 65 L |
