2005 Audi A8 vs. 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4
To start off, 2005 Audi A8 is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4 would be higher. At 2,976 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Audi A8 (218 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 110 more horse power than 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4. (108 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4 weights approximately 450 kg more than 2005 Audi A8.
Because 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4 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 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Audi A8 (300 Nm @ 8200 RPM) has 113 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4. (187 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2005 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi A8 | 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | 230.4 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2976 cc | 2307 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 218 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 187 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 8200 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 93.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Top Speed | 242 km/hour | 170 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.3 seconds | 13.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5190 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 65 L |
