2004 Audi A4 vs. 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380
To start off, 2004 Audi A4 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 would be higher. At 3,839 cc (8 cylinders), 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 (204 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 2004 Audi A4. (187 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 weights approximately 70 kg more than 2004 Audi A4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Audi A4 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 (315 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A4. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A4. 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 has automatic transmission and 2004 Audi A4 has manual transmission. 2004 Audi A4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A4 | 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A4 | 380 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 3839 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 187 HP | 204 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Top Speed | 233 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2860 mm |
