1997 Audi A4 vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 1997 Audi A4 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Audi A4 (163 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (157 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 335 kg more than 1997 Audi A4.
Because 1978 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 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 1997 Audi A4 (234 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Audi A4 | 1978 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A4 | S |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2393 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 157 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 234 Nm | 223 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81.1 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2870 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 85 L |
