2004 Audi A8 vs. 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450
To start off, 2004 Audi A8 is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 would be higher. At 4,519 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi A8 (230 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450. (217 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A8 weights approximately 200 kg more than 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Audi A8 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, 2004 Audi A8 (450 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 91 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450. (359 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A8 | 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | 450 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2966 cc | 4519 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 230 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 359 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91.4 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.8 seconds | 9.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 1630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2820 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 90 L |
