2006 Audi S4 vs. 1991 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2006 Audi S4 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 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 175 more horse power than 1991 Mercedes-Benz S. (164 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi S4 should accelerate faster than 1991 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi S4 weights approximately 360 kg more than 1991 Mercedes-Benz S. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1991 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 1991 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 182 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Mercedes-Benz S. (228 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2006 Audi S4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi S4 | 1991 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S4 | S |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1991 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4163 cc | 2598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 339 HP | 164 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.6 mm | 82.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1880 kg | 1520 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2950 mm |
