2004 Audi A8 vs. 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2004 Audi A8 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1993 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 23 more horse power than 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280. (197 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A8 weights approximately 335 kg more than 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1993 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 1993 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 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280. (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A8 | 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | 280 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1993 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2976 cc | 2799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 220 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 8200 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 73.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 242 km/hour | 213 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1995 kg | 1660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5190 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 72 L |
