2009 Audi A4 vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2009 Audi A4 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz C (303 HP @ 5850 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 2009 Audi A4. (211 HP @ 4300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 538 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 1997 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz C (410 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A4. (350 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A4 | 1997 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A4 | C |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 4266 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 211 HP | 303 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4300 RPM | 5850 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 410 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1032 kg | 1570 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2820 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 69 L |
