2009 Audi A4 vs. 1988 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2009 Audi A4 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,974 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Audi A4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A4 (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1988 Mercedes-Benz S. (165 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1988 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 35 kg more than 2009 Audi A4.
Because 1988 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 1988 Mercedes-Benz S. 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 @ 3200 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Mercedes-Benz S. (228 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Audi A4 | 1988 Mercedes-Benz S | |
Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | A4 | S |
Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2974 cc | 2599 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 217 HP | 165 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4600 RPM |
Torque | 300 Nm | 228 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4600 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 82.9 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 80.3 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 1520 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 5030 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2950 mm |