2004 Audi S4 vs. 1990 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 2004 Audi S4 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Mercedes-Benz 300 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 151 more horse power than 1990 Mercedes-Benz 300. (188 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi S4 should accelerate faster than 1990 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi S4 weights approximately 200 kg more than 1990 Mercedes-Benz 300. 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 1990 Mercedes-Benz 300. 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 150 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Mercedes-Benz 300. (260 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2004 Audi S4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Mercedes-Benz 300. 1990 Mercedes-Benz 300 has automatic transmission and 2004 Audi S4 has manual transmission. 2004 Audi S4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1990 Mercedes-Benz 300 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi S4 | 1990 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S4 | 300 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4172 cc | 2962 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 339 HP | 188 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.5 mm | 88.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 211 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1720 kg | 1520 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2940 mm |
