2004 Audi A8 vs. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 500
To start off, 2004 Audi A8 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mercedes-Benz 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz 500 would be higher. At 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 500 (245 HP @ 4750 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2004 Audi A8. (230 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 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 222 kg more than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 500.
Because 2004 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 500. 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 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 500. (399 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 500.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A8 | 1985 Mercedes-Benz 500 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | 500 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2966 cc | 4973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 230 HP | 245 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 399 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91.4 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 1608 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2460 mm |
