2009 Audi R8 vs. 1973 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2009 Audi R8 is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 4,163 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Audi R8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi R8 (420 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 238 more horse power than 1973 Mercedes-Benz S. (182 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi R8 should accelerate faster than 1973 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 715 kg more than 2009 Audi R8.
Because 2009 Audi R8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1973 Mercedes-Benz S. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Audi R8 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, 2009 Audi R8 (430 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 197 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz S. (233 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Audi R8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi R8 | 1973 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | R8 | S |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 4163 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 420 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 430 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | AWD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 895 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2870 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 65 L |
