1986 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2008 Audi A4
To start off, 2008 Audi A4 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 5,547 cc (8 cylinders), 1986 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Mercedes-Benz S (275 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 136 more horse power than 2008 Audi A4. (139 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 525 kg more than 2008 Audi A4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 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 1986 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 1986 Mercedes-Benz S (422 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A4. (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 1986 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Mercedes-Benz S | 2008 Audi A4 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
| Model | S | A4 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5547 cc | 1968 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 275 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 422 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1800 kg | 1275 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2660 mm |
