2004 Audi S4 vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240
To start off, 2004 Audi S4 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 would be higher. At 4,172 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Audi S4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi S4 (339 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 267 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. (72 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi S4 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi S4 weights approximately 335 kg more than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Audi S4 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Audi S4 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 S4 (410 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 273 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. (137 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2004 Audi S4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi S4 | 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S4 | 240 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4172 cc | 2399 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 339 HP | 72 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.5 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 92.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 21.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1720 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 65 L |
