2009 Audi A4 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2009 Audi A4 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 5,441 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S (494 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 277 more horse power than 2009 Audi A4. (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 465 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 2004 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 2004 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S (700 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 400 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A4. (300 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A4 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A4 | S |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2974 cc | 5441 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 494 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 1950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 3090 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 88 L |
