1999 Audi R8 vs. 1989 Mercedes-Benz 500
To start off, 1999 Audi R8 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mercedes-Benz 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mercedes-Benz 500 would be higher. At 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1989 Mercedes-Benz 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Audi R8 (610 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 287 more horse power than 1989 Mercedes-Benz 500. (323 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Audi R8 should accelerate faster than 1989 Mercedes-Benz 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Mercedes-Benz 500 weights approximately 1888 kg more than 1999 Audi R8.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1999 Audi R8 (705 Nm) has 255 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mercedes-Benz 500. (450 Nm). This means 1999 Audi R8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mercedes-Benz 500.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Audi R8 | 1989 Mercedes-Benz 500 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | R8 | 500 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3596 cc | 4973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 610 HP | 323 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 705 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2 kg | 1890 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1090 mm | 1310 mm |
