1999 Audi A4 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 5 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 3,996 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Audi A4 (252 HP @ 4150 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz S. (248 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 745 kg more than 1999 Audi A4.
Because 2004 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 2004 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S (560 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 230 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Audi A4. (330 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 2004 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 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A4 | S |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 3996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 252 HP | 248 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4150 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 560 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.5:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 192 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 13.1 seconds | 7.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 2040 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 88 L |
