2008 Audi A4 vs. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2008 Audi A4 is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,745 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 (185 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 2008 Audi A4. (161 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A4 weights approximately 32 kg more than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Because 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 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 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Audi A4, 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, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 (238 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A4. (225 Nm @ 1950 RPM). This means 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A4 | 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A4 | 280 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 2745 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 238 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1950 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81.1 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 1508 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 78 L |
