1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 vs. 2011 Audi A4
To start off, 2011 Audi A4 is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 would be higher. At 2,298 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Audi A4 (211 HP) has 77 more horse power than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. (134 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Audi A4 weights approximately 240 kg more than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 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 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Audi A4, 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, 2011 Audi A4 (349 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 144 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. (205 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2011 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 | 2011 Audi A4 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
| Model | 230 | A4 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2298 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 211 HP |
| Torque | 205 Nm | 349 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1600 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4704 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1829 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1427 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2809 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 10.3 L/100km | 7.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 12.9 L/100km | 10.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 65 L |
