2008 Audi A4 vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2008 Audi A4 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,998 cc (5 cylinders), 1978 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A4 (168 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (114 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 720 kg more than 2008 Audi A4.
Because 1978 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 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 1978 Mercedes-Benz S (231 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A4. (230 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1978 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A4.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Audi A4 | 1978 Mercedes-Benz S | |
Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | A4 | S |
Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2393 cc | 2998 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 168 HP | 114 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Torque | 230 Nm | 231 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1495 kg | 2215 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 |