2004 Audi A4 vs. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2004 Audi A4 is newer by 24 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 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 (182 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2004 Audi A4. (170 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A4 weights approximately 100 kg more than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280.
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, 2004 Audi A4, 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, 2004 Audi A4 (235 Nm) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. (233 Nm). This means 2004 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A4 | 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A4 | 280 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1784 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1650 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 90 L |
