2006 Audi A4 vs. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380
To start off, 2006 Audi A4 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 would be higher. At 3,818 cc (8 cylinders), 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi A4 (255 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380. (218 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 weights approximately 285 kg more than 2006 Audi A4.
Because 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 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 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Audi A4, 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, 2006 Audi A4 (330 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380. (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A4 | 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A4 | 380 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3130 cc | 3818 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 255 HP | 218 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.5 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 71.8 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2820 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 90 L |
