2004 Audi A8 vs. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2004 Audi A8 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 2,976 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi A8 (220 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. (182 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A8 weights approximately 445 kg more than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 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 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. (233 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 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. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Audi A8 | 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | A8 | 280 |
Year Released | 2004 | 1980 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2976 cc | 2746 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 220 HP | 182 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 300 Nm | 233 Nm |
Torque RPM | 8200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
Top Speed | 242 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.3 seconds | 11 seconds |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1995 kg | 1550 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5190 mm | 4760 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1800 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1340 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2830 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 90 L |