1997 Audi A4 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Audi A4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Audi A4 would be higher. At 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S (254 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 154 more horse power than 1997 Audi A4. (100 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1997 Audi A4.
Because 2012 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 2012 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S (620 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 480 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Audi A4. (140 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Audi A4. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1997 Audi A4 has manual transmission. 1997 Audi A4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Audi A4 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A4 | S |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 254 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 620 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 5096 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1872 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 3165 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 90 L |
