2009 Audi R8 vs. 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 2009 Audi R8 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 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 189 more horse power than 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300. (231 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi R8 should accelerate faster than 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 593 kg more than 2009 Audi R8.
Because 2009 Audi R8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300. 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 157 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300. (273 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2009 Audi R8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi R8 | 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | R8 | 300 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 4163 cc | 2962 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 420 HP | 231 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7800 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 430 Nm | 273 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| 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 | 1488 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2810 mm |
