2002 Audi A4 vs. 1990 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2002 Audi A4 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,599 cc (6 cylinders), 1990 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Audi A4 (168 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1990 Mercedes-Benz S. (164 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1990 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 145 kg more than 2002 Audi A4.
Because 1990 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 1990 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 1990 Mercedes-Benz S (228 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Audi A4. (225 Nm @ 1950 RPM). This means 1990 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Audi A4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Audi A4 | 1990 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A4 | S |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1779 cc | 2599 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 164 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1950 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 82.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1375 kg | 1520 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2950 mm |
