2004 Audi A8 vs. 1982 Mercedes-Benz 500
To start off, 2004 Audi A8 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Mercedes-Benz 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Mercedes-Benz 500 would be higher. At 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1982 Mercedes-Benz 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1982 Mercedes-Benz 500 (231 HP @ 4750 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 2004 Audi A8. (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1982 Mercedes-Benz 500 should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A8 weights approximately 90 kg more than 1982 Mercedes-Benz 500.
Because 1982 Mercedes-Benz 500 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 1982 Mercedes-Benz 500. 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, 1982 Mercedes-Benz 500 (405 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A8. (300 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1982 Mercedes-Benz 500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A8 | 1982 Mercedes-Benz 500 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | 500 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2976 cc | 4973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 231 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 405 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1700 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 90 L |
