2006 Audi A8 vs. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500
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 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 A8 (256 HP) has 19 more horse power than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500. (237 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A8 weights approximately 365 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 A8, 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 A8. (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 A8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A8 | 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | 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 | 5 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 256 HP | 237 HP |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 402 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 13.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 245 km/hour | 225 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.7 seconds | 7.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1880 kg | 1515 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2820 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 90 L |
