2007 Audi S8 vs. 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2007 Audi S8 is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 5,204 cc (10 cylinders), 2007 Audi S8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Audi S8 (444 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 262 more horse power than 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280. (182 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Audi S8 should accelerate faster than 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Audi S8 weights approximately 380 kg more than 1974 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 S8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Audi S8 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 S8 (540 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 302 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280. (238 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2007 Audi S8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Audi S8 | 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S8 | 280 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5204 cc | 2744 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 444 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 540 Nm | 238 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.5 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 205 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.1 seconds | 10.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | AWD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1940 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5070 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 90 L |
