2003 Audi RS6 vs. 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2003 Audi RS6 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 4,163 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Audi RS6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Audi RS6 (444 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 262 more horse power than 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280. (182 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Audi RS6 should accelerate faster than 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Audi RS6 weights approximately 350 kg more than 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Audi RS6 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Audi RS6 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 RS6 (560 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 322 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280. (238 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Audi RS6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280. 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 has automatic transmission and 2003 Audi RS6 has manual transmission. 2003 Audi RS6 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Audi RS6 | 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | RS6 | 280 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4163 cc | 2744 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 444 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 560 Nm | 238 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1950 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.5 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 205 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1910 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 82 L | 90 L |
