2004 Audi A4 vs. 1988 Mercedes-Benz 190
To start off, 2004 Audi A4 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Mercedes-Benz 190. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Mercedes-Benz 190 would be higher. At 2,294 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Mercedes-Benz 190 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Mercedes-Benz 190 (131 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 2004 Audi A4. (113 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Mercedes-Benz 190 should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A4 weights approximately 65 kg more than 1988 Mercedes-Benz 190.
Because 1988 Mercedes-Benz 190 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 1988 Mercedes-Benz 190. 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 (285 Nm) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Mercedes-Benz 190. (198 Nm). This means 2004 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Mercedes-Benz 190.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A4 | 1988 Mercedes-Benz 190 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A4 | 190 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 2294 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 131 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 198 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.6 mm | 95.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2670 mm |
