2009 Audi A4 vs. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 2009 Audi A4 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,997 cc (5 cylinders), 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A4 (217 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 130 more horse power than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. (87 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A4 weights approximately 10 kg more than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 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 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Audi A4 (300 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 128 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. (172 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A4 | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A4 | 300 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 2997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 87 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 90.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 92.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 21.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 247 km/hour | 155 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1455 kg | 1445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4610 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 65 L |
