2002 Audi A4 vs. 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350
To start off, 2002 Audi A4 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 would be higher. At 3,499 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 (200 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 2002 Audi A4. (161 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 should accelerate faster than 2002 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 weights approximately 125 kg more than 2002 Audi A4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Audi A4 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Audi A4 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, 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 (286 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Audi A4. (225 Nm @ 1950 RPM). This means 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Audi A4. 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 has automatic transmission and 2002 Audi A4 has manual transmission. 2002 Audi A4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Audi A4 | 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A4 | 350 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 3499 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 286 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1950 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 226 km/hour | 195 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 1595 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2830 mm |
