2005 Audi A8 vs. 1981 Mercedes-Benz G
To start off, 2005 Audi A8 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mercedes-Benz G. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mercedes-Benz G would be higher. At 3,936 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Audi A8 (271 HP @ 3750 RPM) has 146 more horse power than 1981 Mercedes-Benz G. (125 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1981 Mercedes-Benz G. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Mercedes-Benz G weights approximately 160 kg more than 2005 Audi A8.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 (650 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 464 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mercedes-Benz G. (186 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mercedes-Benz G. 2005 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 1981 Mercedes-Benz G has manual transmission. 1981 Mercedes-Benz G will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi A8 | 1981 Mercedes-Benz G | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | G |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3936 cc | 2299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 271 HP | 125 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3750 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 650 Nm | 186 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1770 kg | 1930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5190 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1940 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2860 mm |
