2005 Audi A8 vs. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 220

To start off, 2005 Audi A8 is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mercedes-Benz 220. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mercedes-Benz 220 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 160 more horse power than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 220. (58 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 220. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 220 weights approximately 492 kg more than 2005 Audi A8.

Because 1973 Mercedes-Benz 220 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 220. 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 174 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 220. (126 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2005 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 220. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 220 has automatic transmission and 2005 Audi A8 has manual transmission. 2005 Audi A8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 220 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2005 Audi A8 1973 Mercedes-Benz 220
Make Audi Mercedes-Benz
Model A8 220
Year Released 2005 1973
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2976 cc 2197 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Valves per Cylinder 5 valves 2 valves
Horse Power 218 HP 58 HP
Engine RPM 6300 RPM 4200 RPM
Torque 300 Nm 126 Nm
Torque RPM 8200 RPM 2400 RPM
Engine Bore Size 82.5 mm 87 mm
Engine Stroke Size 92.8 mm 92.4 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 11.0:1 21.5:1
Top Speed 242 km/hour 130 km/hour
Acceleration 0-100mph 8.3 seconds 29.1 seconds
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 900 kg 1392 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