2006 Audi A6 vs. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500

To start off, 2006 Audi A6 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500 would be higher. At 4,972 cc (8 cylinders), 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi A6 (253 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500. (237 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi A6 should accelerate faster than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A6 weights approximately 165 kg more than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500 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 500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Audi A6, 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, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500 (402 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Audi A6. (330 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Audi A6. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500 has automatic transmission and 2006 Audi A6 has manual transmission. 2006 Audi A6 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2006 Audi A6 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500
Make Audi Mercedes-Benz
Model A6 500
Year Released 2006 1980
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3123 cc 4972 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type V V
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 2 valves
Horse Power 253 HP 237 HP
Engine RPM 6500 RPM 5000 RPM
Torque 330 Nm 402 Nm
Torque RPM 3250 RPM 3200 RPM
Engine Bore Size 84.5 mm 96.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 92.8 mm 85 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 12.5:1 8.8:1
Acceleration 0-100mph 7.1 seconds 7.8 seconds
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1680 kg 1515 kg
Vehicle Length 4920 mm 4760 mm
Vehicle Width 1860 mm 1800 mm
Vehicle Height 1470 mm 1340 mm
Wheelbase Size 2850 mm 2820 mm