2006 Audi A8 vs. 1981 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2006 Audi A8 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mercedes-Benz S 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 296 more horse power than 1981 Mercedes-Benz S. (154 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1981 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A8 weights approximately 585 kg more than 1981 Mercedes-Benz S. 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 1981 Mercedes-Benz S. 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 357 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mercedes-Benz S. (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A8 | 1981 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | S |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5997 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Type | W | in-line |
| Horse Power | 450 HP | 154 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 580 Nm | 223 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2145 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5200 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2950 mm |
