2004 Audi A4 vs. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 500
To start off, 2004 Audi A4 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mercedes-Benz 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz 500 would be higher. At 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 500 (245 HP @ 4750 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 2004 Audi A4. (170 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 500 should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A4 weights approximately 42 kg more than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 500.
Because 1985 Mercedes-Benz 500 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 500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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 500 (399 Nm) has 164 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A4. (235 Nm). This means 1985 Mercedes-Benz 500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A4 | 1985 Mercedes-Benz 500 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A4 | 500 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1784 cc | 4973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 245 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 399 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1650 kg | 1608 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2460 mm |
