2009 Audi A4 vs. 1989 Mercedes-Benz 500
To start off, 2009 Audi A4 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mercedes-Benz 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mercedes-Benz 500 would be higher. At 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1989 Mercedes-Benz 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mercedes-Benz 500 (323 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 2009 Audi A4. (222 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mercedes-Benz 500 should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Mercedes-Benz 500 weights approximately 280 kg more than 2009 Audi A4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Audi A4 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 Mercedes-Benz 500. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Audi A4 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, both vehicles can yield 450 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 1989 Mercedes-Benz 500 has automatic transmission and 2009 Audi A4 has manual transmission. 2009 Audi A4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1989 Mercedes-Benz 500 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A4 | 1989 Mercedes-Benz 500 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A4 | 500 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2965 cc | 4973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 222 HP | 323 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91.4 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 235 km/hour | 249 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1890 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |
