1996 Audi A4 vs. 1980 Mercedes-Benz G
To start off, 1996 Audi A4 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mercedes-Benz G. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mercedes-Benz G would be higher. At 2,598 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Audi A4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Audi A4 (148 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1980 Mercedes-Benz G. (125 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1980 Mercedes-Benz G. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Mercedes-Benz G weights approximately 580 kg more than 1996 Audi A4.
Because 1980 Mercedes-Benz G is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Audi A4. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Mercedes-Benz G 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, 1996 Audi A4 (225 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mercedes-Benz G. (192 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Mercedes-Benz G.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A4 | 1980 Mercedes-Benz G | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A4 | G |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2598 cc | 2297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 125 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 192 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1940 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2410 mm |
