2008 Audi A5 vs. 1990 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2008 Audi A5 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 5,547 cc (8 cylinders), 1990 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Mercedes-Benz S (297 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 2008 Audi A5. (262 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 200 kg more than 2008 Audi A5. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1990 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 1990 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Audi A5, 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, 1990 Mercedes-Benz S (463 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 133 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A5. (330 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1990 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A5.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A5 | 1990 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A5 | S |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3197 cc | 5547 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 262 HP | 297 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 463 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2950 mm |
