2009 Audi R8 vs. 1985 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2009 Audi R8 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 5,204 cc (10 cylinders), 2009 Audi R8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi R8 (518 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 317 more horse power than 1985 Mercedes-Benz S. (201 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi R8 should accelerate faster than 1985 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 5 kg more than 2009 Audi R8.
Because 2009 Audi R8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1985 Mercedes-Benz S. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Audi R8 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, 2009 Audi R8 (530 Nm @ 6500 RPM) has 214 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mercedes-Benz S. (316 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2009 Audi R8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi R8 | 1985 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | R8 | S |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 5204 cc | 3839 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 518 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 530 Nm | 316 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 6500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | AWD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1580 kg | 1585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1940 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2860 mm |
