2003 Audi A8 vs. 1961 Mercedes-Benz 190
To start off, 2003 Audi A8 is newer by 42 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Mercedes-Benz 190. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Mercedes-Benz 190 would be higher. At 2,976 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Audi A8 (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 158 more horse power than 1961 Mercedes-Benz 190. (59 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1961 Mercedes-Benz 190. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Audi A8 weights approximately 630 kg more than 1961 Mercedes-Benz 190. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 Mercedes-Benz 190 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1961 Mercedes-Benz 190. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Audi A8, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 A8 (300 Nm @ 8200 RPM) has 182 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Mercedes-Benz 190. (118 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2003 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Mercedes-Benz 190.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Audi A8 | 1961 Mercedes-Benz 190 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | 190 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2976 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 118 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 8200 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 21.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1855 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5190 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 52 L |
