2003 Audi A8 vs. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 2003 Audi A8 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,995 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Audi A8 (216 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300. (178 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Audi A8 weights approximately 140 kg more than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 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 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300. 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 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300. (255 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2003 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Audi A8 | 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | 300 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2974 cc | 2995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 216 HP | 178 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 255 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 88.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Top Speed | 242 km/hour | 207 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.9 seconds | 9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 7.2 L/100km | 11 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 13.7 L/100km | 13.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.6 L/100km | 9.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 72 L |
