2006 Audi S4 vs. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500
To start off, 2006 Audi S4 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500 would be higher. At 4,972 cc (8 cylinders), 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi S4 (340 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 103 more horse power than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500. (237 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi S4 should accelerate faster than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500 weights approximately 237 kg more than 2006 Audi S4.
Because 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500 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 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500. 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 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500. (402 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2006 Audi S4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi S4 | 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S4 | 500 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4163 cc | 4972 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 340 HP | 237 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 402 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1278 kg | 1515 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2820 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 90 L |
