2007 Audi A8 vs. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2007 Audi A8 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 5,997 cc, 2007 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Audi A8 (444 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 259 more horse power than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. (185 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Audi A8 weights approximately 495 kg more than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2007 Audi A8 (580 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 340 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2007 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. 2007 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 has manual transmission. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Audi A8 | 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | 280 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5997 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Type | W | in-line |
| Horse Power | 444 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 580 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.2 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1995 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5070 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2460 mm |
