2009 Audi R8 vs. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2009 Audi R8 is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 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 245 more horse power than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280. (175 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi R8 should accelerate faster than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 569 kg more than 2009 Audi R8.
Because 2009 Audi R8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280. 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 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280. (233 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Audi R8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi R8 | 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | R8 | 280 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1976 |
| 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 | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 430 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.5:1 | 8.7:1 |
| Drive Type | AWD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 895 kg | 1464 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 79 L |
