2005 Audi A4 vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2005 Audi A4 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,967 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Audi A4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Audi A4 (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. (182 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Audi A4 weights approximately 30 kg more than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Audi A4 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Audi A4 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, 2005 Audi A4 (300 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. (241 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2005 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi A4 | 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A4 | 280 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2967 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 241 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.9 seconds | 9.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 1475 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 65 L |
