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 2,778 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 (170 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 2009 Audi A4. (161 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A4 weights approximately 425 kg more than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280.
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, 2009 Audi A4, 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, 2009 Audi A4 (350 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (240 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 | 2495 cc | 2778 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.3 mm | 86.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 225 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1720 kg | 1295 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 64 L |
