2008 Audi A4 vs. 1988 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2008 Audi A4 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1988 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Mercedes-Benz S (261 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2008 Audi A4. (250 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A4 weights approximately 79 kg more than 1988 Mercedes-Benz S.
Because 2008 Audi A4 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 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 (450 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Mercedes-Benz S. (405 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A4 | 1988 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A4 | S |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2967 cc | 4973 cc |
| Horse Power | 250 HP | 261 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 405 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91.4 mm | 85 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1705 kg | 1626 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2950 mm |
