2003 Audi A8 vs. 1972 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2003 Audi A8 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 3,936 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Audi A8 (276 HP @ 3750 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 1972 Mercedes-Benz E. (158 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1972 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Audi A8 weights approximately 464 kg more than 1972 Mercedes-Benz E. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1972 Mercedes-Benz E. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Audi A8 (650 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 420 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Mercedes-Benz E. (230 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Mercedes-Benz E.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Audi A8 | 1972 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | E |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3936 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 276 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3750 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 650 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81.1 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 |
| Vehicle Weight | 1880 kg | 1416 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2760 mm |
