2008 Audi A4 vs. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420
To start off, 2008 Audi A4 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 would be higher. At 4,196 cc (8 cylinders), 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 (231 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 2008 Audi A4. (161 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 weights approximately 85 kg more than 2008 Audi A4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 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 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420. 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, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 (327 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A4. (225 Nm @ 1950 RPM). This means 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A4. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 has automatic transmission and 2008 Audi A4 has manual transmission. 2008 Audi A4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A4 | 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A4 | 420 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 4196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 231 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 327 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1950 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81.1 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 78.9 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 1625 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 2010 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 3080 mm |
