2003 Audi A6 vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2003 Audi A6 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Audi A6 (226 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. (182 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Audi A6 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Audi A6 weights approximately 187 kg more than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Audi A6 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Audi A6 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, 2003 Audi A6 (310 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. (241 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Audi A6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Audi A6 | 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A6 | 280 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2671 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 226 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 241 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1700 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Top Speed | 245 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.3 seconds | 9.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1662 kg | 1475 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 65 L |
