1999 Audi A4 vs. 1989 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 1999 Audi A4 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,599 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mercedes-Benz S (164 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1999 Audi A4. (123 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1999 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 235 kg more than 1999 Audi A4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 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 1989 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 1989 Mercedes-Benz S (228 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Audi A4. (168 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1989 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Audi A4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Audi A4 | 1989 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A4 | S |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 2599 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 164 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 1520 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2950 mm |
