2009 Audi A8 vs. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450
To start off, 2009 Audi A8 is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 would be higher. At 4,520 cc (8 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A8 (256 HP) has 31 more horse power than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450. (225 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 weights approximately 582 kg more than 2009 Audi A8.
Because 2009 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Audi A8 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, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 (378 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A8. (330 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A8 | 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | 450 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3123 cc | 4520 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 256 HP | 225 HP |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 378 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 13.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 245 km/hour | 211 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1742 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2870 mm |
