1999 Audi A4 vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S

To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Audi A4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Audi A4 would be higher. At 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (275 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 175 more horse power than 1999 Audi A4. (100 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1999 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 680 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 2003 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 2003 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (400 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 260 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Audi A4. (140 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Audi A4. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1999 Audi A4 has manual transmission. 1999 Audi A4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1999 Audi A4 2003 Mercedes-Benz S
Make Audi Mercedes-Benz
Model A4 S
Year Released 1999 2003
Body Type Sedan Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1594 cc 4266 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 3 valves
Horse Power 100 HP 275 HP
Engine RPM 5300 RPM 5750 RPM
Torque 140 Nm 400 Nm
Torque RPM 3800 RPM 3000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 81 mm 89.9 mm
Engine Stroke Size 77.5 mm 84 mm
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline - Premium
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1195 kg 1875 kg
Vehicle Length 4480 mm 5050 mm
Vehicle Width 1740 mm 1860 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1450 mm
Wheelbase Size 2620 mm 3090 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 62 L 88 L