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 2,778 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A8 (207 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (170 HP @ 5750 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 395 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 (280 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (240 Nm @ 4500 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 | 2772 cc | 2778 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 207 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.5 mm | 86.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.4 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 238 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 1295 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5070 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 64 L |
