1998 Audi A4 vs. 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350
To start off, 1998 Audi A4 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 would be higher. At 3,499 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 (200 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1998 Audi A4. (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 should accelerate faster than 1998 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 weights approximately 15 kg more than 1998 Audi A4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 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 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1998 Audi A4 (310 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350. (286 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350. 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 has automatic transmission and 1998 Audi A4 has manual transmission. 1998 Audi A4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Audi A4 | 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A4 | 350 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2495 cc | 3499 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 286 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1580 kg | 1595 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2830 mm |
