2003 Audi A8 vs. 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350
To start off, 2003 Audi A8 is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 would be higher. At 3,499 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Audi A8 (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350. (200 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 weights approximately 5 kg more than 2003 Audi A8.
Because 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 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 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350. 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 @ 3200 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350. (286 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Audi A8 | 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 | |
Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | A8 | 350 |
Year Released | 2003 | 1971 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2976 cc | 3499 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Horse Power | 217 HP | 200 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 300 Nm | 286 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1590 kg | 1595 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4750 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1800 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1340 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2830 mm |