2004 Audi A8 vs. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 240
To start off, 2004 Audi A8 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mercedes-Benz 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mercedes-Benz 240 would be higher. At 2,975 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi A8 (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 154 more horse power than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 240. (63 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 240.
Because 1973 Mercedes-Benz 240 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 1973 Mercedes-Benz 240. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Audi A8 (300 Nm @ 8200 RPM) has 162 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 240. (138 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 240. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 240 has automatic transmission and 2004 Audi A8 has manual transmission. 2004 Audi A8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 240 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A8 | 1973 Mercedes-Benz 240 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | 240 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2975 cc | 2404 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 63 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 138 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 8200 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 92 mm |
| Top Speed | 245 km/hour | 133 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.9 seconds | 27.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 65 L |
