2004 Audi RS4 vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2004 Audi RS4 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi RS4 (376 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz E. (349 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi RS4 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 125 kg more than 2004 Audi RS4.
Because 2004 Audi RS4 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Mercedes-Benz E. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Audi RS4 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz E (531 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi RS4. (450 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi RS4. 1997 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 2004 Audi RS4 has manual transmission. 2004 Audi RS4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi RS4 | 1997 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | RS4 | E |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2671 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 376 HP | 349 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 531 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1585 kg | 1710 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
