2009 Audi A4 vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2009 Audi A4 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 5,786 cc (12 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz S (362 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 145 more horse power than 2009 Audi A4. (217 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 585 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 1998 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 1998 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz S (530 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 230 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A4. (300 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A4. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S 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. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A4 | 1998 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A4 | S |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 5786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 362 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 247 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.1 seconds | 6.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1455 kg | 2040 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4610 mm | 5160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 3090 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.1 L/100km | 13.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 88 L |
