2009 Audi A5 vs. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2009 Audi A5 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 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 (185 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 2009 Audi A5. (168 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 220 kg more than 2009 Audi A5. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 A5, 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 A5 (250 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (238 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A5 | 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A5 | 280 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 238 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.1 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1615 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2870 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 95 L |
