2004 Audi A4 vs. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 2004 Audi A4 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,995 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 (178 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 2004 Audi A4. (160 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A4 weights approximately 60 kg more than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300.
Because 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 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 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300. 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, 2004 Audi A4 (310 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300. (255 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A4 | 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A4 | 300 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2393 cc | 2995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 178 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 255 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.4 mm | 88.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.2 seconds | 9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1590 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 5.6 L/100km | 11 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 9.2 L/100km | 13.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.9 L/100km | 9.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 72 L |
