2002 Audi R8 vs. 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2002 Audi R8 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 3,600 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Audi R8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Audi R8 (610 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 428 more horse power than 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280. (182 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Audi R8 should accelerate faster than 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 1558 kg more than 2002 Audi R8.
Because 2002 Audi R8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Audi R8 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 R8 (698 Nm) has 460 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280. (238 Nm). This means 2002 Audi R8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Audi R8 | 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | R8 | 280 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3600 cc | 2744 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 610 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 698 Nm | 238 Nm |
| Drive Type | AWD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1090 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 90 L |
