2006 Audi S4 vs. 1974 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2006 Audi S4 is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 4,163 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Audi S4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi S4 (339 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 141 more horse power than 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. (198 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi S4 should accelerate faster than 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi S4 weights approximately 205 kg more than 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Audi S4, 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 S4 (410 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 124 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. (286 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Audi S4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi S4 | 1974 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S4 | S |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4163 cc | 3499 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 339 HP | 198 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 286 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1880 kg | 1675 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2870 mm |
