2001 Audi A6 vs. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420
To start off, 2001 Audi A6 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 would be higher. At 4,196 cc (8 cylinders), 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Audi A6 (296 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420. (231 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Audi A6 should accelerate faster than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Audi A6 weights approximately 170 kg more than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 Audi A6 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Audi A6 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2001 Audi A6 (400 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420. (327 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2001 Audi A6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Audi A6 | 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A6 | 420 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4170 cc | 4196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 296 HP | 231 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 327 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.5 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 78.9 mm |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1795 kg | 1625 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 2010 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 3080 mm |
