1990 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2012 Audi S5
To start off, 2012 Audi S5 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 5,547 cc (8 cylinders), 1990 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Audi S5 (333 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1990 Mercedes-Benz S. (297 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi S5 should accelerate faster than 1990 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Audi S5 weights approximately 145 kg more than 1990 Mercedes-Benz S. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Audi S5 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1990 Mercedes-Benz S. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Audi S5 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, 1990 Mercedes-Benz S (463 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Audi S5. (440 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 1990 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Audi S5.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Mercedes-Benz S | 2012 Audi S5 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
| Model | S | S5 |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5547 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 297 HP | 333 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 463 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 7-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1810 kg | 1955 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4623 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1852 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1382 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2751 mm |
