1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 vs. 2004 Audi A4
To start off, 2004 Audi A4 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 would be higher. At 4,196 cc (8 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 (219 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 2004 Audi A4. (169 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 weights approximately 35 kg more than 2004 Audi A4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Audi A4 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 (329 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A4. (225 Nm @ 1950 RPM). This means 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 | 2004 Audi A4 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
| Model | 420 | A4 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4196 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 219 HP | 169 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 329 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.9 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 214 km/hour | 222 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1600 kg | 1565 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2660 mm |
