2004 Audi A6 vs. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2004 Audi A6 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi A6 (180 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280. (175 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A6 should accelerate faster than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A6 weights approximately 198 kg more than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 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 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Audi A6, 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 A6 (235 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280. (233 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A6 | 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A6 | 280 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2496 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 8.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1662 kg | 1464 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4940 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 79 L |
