2005 Audi A4 vs. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2005 Audi A4 is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,745 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 (185 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2005 Audi A4. (170 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2005 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Audi A4 weights approximately 148 kg more than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Because 1973 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 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Audi A4, 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, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 (238 Nm) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Audi A4. (230 Nm). This means 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Audi A4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi A4 | 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A4 | 280 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1786 cc | 2745 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 238 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1656 kg | 1508 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 78 L |
