1999 Audi A2 vs. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420
To start off, 1999 Audi A2 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 would be higher. At 4,196 cc (8 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Audi A2 (247 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. (218 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Audi A2 should accelerate faster than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 weights approximately 730 kg more than 1999 Audi A2.
Because 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 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 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Audi A2, 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, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 (329 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Audi A2. (320 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Audi A2.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Audi A2 | 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A2 | 420 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1390 cc | 4196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 218 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 329 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12 seconds | 9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 1600 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3830 mm | 5070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2850 mm |
