2008 Audi A4 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2008 Audi A4 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 3,222 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S (201 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 2008 Audi A4. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 520 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 2004 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 2004 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S (500 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 190 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A4. (310 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A4. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S 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. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A4 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A4 | S |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 3222 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 500 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 202 km/hour | 230 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 1925 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2970 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.1 L/100km | 7.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 88 L |
