2008 Audi A5 vs. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280

To start off, 2008 Audi A5 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 4,163 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Audi A5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A5 (349 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 179 more horse power than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (170 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A5 should accelerate faster than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A5 weights approximately 335 kg more than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2008 Audi A5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Audi A5 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, 2008 Audi A5 (440 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 200 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280.

Compare all specifications:

2008 Audi A5 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280
Make Audi Mercedes-Benz
Model A5 280
Year Released 2008 1973
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4163 cc 2778 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 349 HP 170 HP
Engine RPM 7000 RPM 5750 RPM
Torque 440 Nm 240 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 4500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 84.5 mm 86.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 93 mm 78.8 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.3:1 9.5:1
Top Speed 250 km/hour 200 km/hour
Drive Type 4WD Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 4 seats 2 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1630 kg 1295 kg
Vehicle Length 4640 mm 4310 mm
Vehicle Width 1860 mm 1770 mm
Vehicle Height 1380 mm 1320 mm
Wheelbase Size 2760 mm 2410 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 64 L 64 L