2009 Audi A4 vs. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2009 Audi A4 is newer by 36 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 2,965 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Audi A4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A4 (222 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (185 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 5 kg more than 2009 Audi A4.
Because 2009 Audi A4 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Audi A4 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, 2009 Audi A4 (450 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 212 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (238 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A4 | 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A4 | 280 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2965 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 222 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 238 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91.4 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1615 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2870 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 95 L |
