1974 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2011 Audi A5
To start off, 2011 Audi A5 is newer by 37 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 3,499 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Mercedes-Benz S (198 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 2011 Audi A5. (158 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2011 Audi A5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Audi A5 weights approximately 85 kg more than 1974 Mercedes-Benz S.
Because 1974 Mercedes-Benz S is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Audi A5, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 (286 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Audi A5. (250 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 1974 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Audi A5.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Mercedes-Benz S | 2011 Audi A5 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
| Model | S | A5 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3499 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 198 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 286 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1675 kg | 1760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4970 mm | 4623 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1852 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1382 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2751 mm |
