2003 Audi A8 vs. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2003 Audi A8 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,974 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Audi A8 (216 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. (185 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Audi A8 weights approximately 170 kg more than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 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 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. 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 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. 2003 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 has manual transmission. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Audi A8 | 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | A8 | 280 |
Year Released | 2003 | 1980 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2974 cc | 2746 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 216 HP | 185 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 300 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 78.8 mm |
Top Speed | 242 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 1500 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4400 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1800 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1310 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2460 mm |