2006 Audi A4 vs. 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 2006 Audi A4 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,962 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 (220 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 2006 Audi A4. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 2006 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A4 weights approximately 60 kg more than 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300.
Because 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 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 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Audi A4 (320 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300. (265 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2006 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A4 | 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A4 | 300 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 2962 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 220 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 265 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 212 km/hour | 232 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.7 seconds | 8.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2720 mm |
