2006 Audi A8 vs. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380
To start off, 2006 Audi A8 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 5,997 cc, 2006 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi A8 (450 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 232 more horse power than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380. (218 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A8 weights approximately 585 kg more than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Audi A8 (580 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 275 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380. (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A8 | 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | 380 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5997 cc | 3818 cc |
| Engine Type | W | V |
| Horse Power | 450 HP | 218 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 580 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.2 mm | 71.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2145 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5200 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2820 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 90 L |
