2003 Audi A8 vs. 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 2003 Audi A8 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,976 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 (220 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 2003 Audi A8. (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 2003 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Audi A8 weights approximately 120 kg more than 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300.
Because 1989 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 1989 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 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300. (265 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Audi A8 | 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | 300 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2976 cc | 2962 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 220 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 265 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1590 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2720 mm |
