2008 Audi A8 vs. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2008 Audi A8 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 2,976 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A8 (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (160 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A8 weights approximately 170 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 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 A8, 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 A8 (300 Nm @ 8200 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (224 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A8 | 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | 280 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2976 cc | 2778 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 224 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 8200 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 86.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 242 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5190 mm | 4910 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 82 L |
