2009 Audi A5 vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2009 Audi A5 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,799 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz S (190 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 2009 Audi A5. (187 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 315 kg more than 2009 Audi A5. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 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 1997 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Audi A5, 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, 2009 Audi A5 (400 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz S. (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A5 | 1997 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A5 | S |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2698 cc | 2799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 187 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 16.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1575 kg | 1890 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 5120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 70 L |
