2009 Audi A8 vs. 1961 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 2009 Audi A8 is newer by 48 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 1961 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A8 (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1961 Mercedes-Benz 300. (215 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1961 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A8 weights approximately 341 kg more than 1961 Mercedes-Benz 300. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 Mercedes-Benz 300 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 1961 Mercedes-Benz 300. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Audi A8, 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 A8 (300 Nm @ 8200 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Mercedes-Benz 300. (275 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Mercedes-Benz 300.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A8 | 1961 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | 300 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2975 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 275 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 8200 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 85.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.3 seconds | 10 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 1329 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5190 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 100 L |
