2009 Audi A4 vs. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380
To start off, 2009 Audi A4 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 would be higher. At 3,818 cc (8 cylinders), 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 (218 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 2009 Audi A4. (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A4 weights approximately 30 kg more than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380.
Because 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 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 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380. 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, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A4. (300 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A4. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 has automatic transmission and 2009 Audi A4 has manual transmission. 2009 Audi A4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A4 | 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A4 | 380 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2976 cc | 3818 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 218 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 71.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1590 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2820 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 90 L |
