2008 Audi A8 vs. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380
To start off, 2008 Audi A8 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 would be higher. At 4,163 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A8 (350 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 135 more horse power than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380. (215 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A8 weights approximately 364 kg more than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Audi A8 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 A8 (442 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 137 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380. (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A8 | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | 380 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4163 cc | 3818 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 350 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 442 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.5 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 71.8 mm |
| Top Speed | 209 km/hour | 216 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1960 kg | 1596 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5070 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2940 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 90 L |
