2008 Audi A4 vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2008 Audi A4 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz E (349 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 2008 Audi A4. (250 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 5 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 2008 Audi A4 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Mercedes-Benz E. 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz E (531 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A4. (450 Nm @ 1400 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A4 | 1997 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A4 | E |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2967 cc | 5439 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 250 HP | 349 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 531 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91.4 mm | 92 mm |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.9 seconds | 5.7 seconds |
| 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 | 1710 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.3 L/100km | 12.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 80 L |
