1998 Audi A4 vs. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 1998 Audi A4 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 3,005 cc (5 cylinders), 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Audi A4 (100 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300. (80 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 245 kg more than 1998 Audi A4.
Because 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300 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 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300. 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, 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300 (171 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Audi A4. (140 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Audi A4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Audi A4 | 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A4 | 300 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 3005 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 80 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 171 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.5 mm | 92.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2800 mm |
