2009 Audi A4 vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2009 Audi A4 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz E (275 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 134 more horse power than 2009 Audi A4. (141 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 1122 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz E 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz E (400 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A4. (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A4 | 1996 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A4 | E |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 4266 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 275 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 16.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 205 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.4 seconds | 6.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 2052 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 80 L |
