2002 Audi A4 vs. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420
To start off, 2002 Audi A4 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 would be higher. At 4,196 cc (8 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 (218 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 2002 Audi A4. (148 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 should accelerate faster than 2002 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 weights approximately 250 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 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 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 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 (329 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 129 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Audi A4. (200 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Audi A4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Audi A4 | 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A4 | 420 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 4196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 218 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 329 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 213 km/hour | 212 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.6 seconds | 9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1600 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 5070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2850 mm |
