2004 Audi A4 vs. 1986 Mercedes-Benz S
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 S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 4,196 cc (8 cylinders), 1986 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Mercedes-Benz S (215 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 2004 Audi A4. (201 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A4 weights approximately 175 kg more than 1986 Mercedes-Benz S.
Because 2004 Audi A4 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1986 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 2004 Audi A4 (451 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 121 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Mercedes-Benz S. (330 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A4 | 1986 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A4 | S |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2967 cc | 4196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 451 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1730 kg | 1555 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2950 mm |
