2008 Audi A6 vs. 1972 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2008 Audi A6 is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 2,976 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Audi A6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A6 (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1972 Mercedes-Benz E. (158 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A6 should accelerate faster than 1972 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A6 weights approximately 119 kg more than 1972 Mercedes-Benz E. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Mercedes-Benz E 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 1972 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Audi A6, 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, 2008 Audi A6 (300 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Mercedes-Benz E. (230 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Mercedes-Benz E.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A6 | 1972 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A6 | E |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2976 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1535 kg | 1416 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2760 mm |
