2005 Audi A8 vs. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420
To start off, 2005 Audi A8 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 would be higher. At 4,196 cc (8 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Audi A8 (276 HP @ 3750 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. (218 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Audi A8 weights approximately 340 kg more than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Audi A8 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 A8 (650 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 321 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. (329 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2005 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi A8 | 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | 420 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3934 cc | 4196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 276 HP | 218 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3750 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 650 Nm | 329 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 212 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.7 seconds | 9 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1940 kg | 1600 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 5070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2850 mm |
