2008 Audi S4 vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2008 Audi S4 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 4,161 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Audi S4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi S4 (340 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 183 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (157 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi S4 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi S4 weights approximately 95 kg more than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Audi S4 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Audi S4 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 S4 (410 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 187 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Audi S4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi S4 | 1978 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S4 | S |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4161 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 340 HP | 157 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 223 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.5 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1705 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2870 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 85 L |
