2002 Audi S4 vs. 1980 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2002 Audi S4 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 4,163 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Audi S4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Audi S4 (339 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 121 more horse power than 1980 Mercedes-Benz S. (218 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Audi S4 should accelerate faster than 1980 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Audi S4 weights approximately 125 kg more than 1980 Mercedes-Benz S. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Audi S4 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 Mercedes-Benz S. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Audi S4 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, 2002 Audi S4 (410 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mercedes-Benz S. (306 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2002 Audi S4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Mercedes-Benz S. 1980 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2002 Audi S4 has manual transmission. 2002 Audi S4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1980 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Audi S4 | 1980 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S4 | S |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4163 cc | 3818 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 339 HP | 218 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 306 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.6 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 71.8 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1720 kg | 1595 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2950 mm |
