2008 Audi A4 vs. 1973 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2008 Audi A4 is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A4 (187 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1973 Mercedes-Benz S. (182 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1973 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 80 kg more than 2008 Audi A4.
Because 2008 Audi A4 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1973 Mercedes-Benz S. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Audi A4 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, 2008 Audi A4 (240 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz S. (233 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A4 | 1973 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A4 | S |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1779 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 187 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1950 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2870 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 65 L |
