1974 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2009 Audi A4
To start off, 2009 Audi A4 is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 4,520 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Mercedes-Benz S (223 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2009 Audi A4. (218 HP @ 5900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 135 kg more than 2009 Audi A4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Audi A4 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Audi A4 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, 1974 Mercedes-Benz S (378 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A4. (300 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1974 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Mercedes-Benz S | 2009 Audi A4 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
| Model | S | A4 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4520 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 223 HP | 218 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 378 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1730 kg | 1595 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4970 mm | 4610 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2660 mm |
