2008 Audi R8 vs. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 2008 Audi R8 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 4,163 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Audi R8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi R8 (420 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 232 more horse power than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300. (188 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi R8 should accelerate faster than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 165 kg more than 2008 Audi R8.
Because 2008 Audi R8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Audi R8 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 R8 (430 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 170 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300. (260 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2008 Audi R8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi R8 | 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | R8 | 300 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 4163 cc | 2962 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 420 HP | 188 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7800 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 430 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 295 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Drive Type | AWD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2810 mm |
