1986 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2012 Audi A4
To start off, 2012 Audi A4 is newer by 26 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 64 more horse power than 2012 Audi A4. (211 HP @ 4300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2012 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 160 kg more than 2012 Audi A4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Audi A4 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1986 Mercedes-Benz S. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 1986 Mercedes-Benz S (422 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Audi A4. (349 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 1986 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Audi A4. 1986 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2012 Audi A4 has manual transmission. 2012 Audi A4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1986 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Mercedes-Benz S | 2012 Audi A4 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
| Model | S | A4 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5547 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 275 HP | 211 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Torque | 422 Nm | 349 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1800 kg | 1640 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4704 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1829 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1427 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2809 mm |
