2002 Audi A8 vs. 1977 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2002 Audi A8 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Mercedes-Benz S 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 113 more horse power than 1977 Mercedes-Benz S. (158 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1977 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Audi A8 weights approximately 330 kg more than 1977 Mercedes-Benz S. 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 1977 Mercedes-Benz S. 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 2 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Mercedes-Benz S. (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Audi A8 | 1977 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | S |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1977 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3936 cc | 2745 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 271 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3750 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 223 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1940 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2870 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 85 L |
