2009 Audi R8 vs. 1986 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2009 Audi R8 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 4,196 cc (8 cylinders), 1986 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi R8 (414 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 199 more horse power than 1986 Mercedes-Benz S. (215 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi R8 should accelerate faster than 1986 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi R8 weights approximately 5 kg more than 1986 Mercedes-Benz S. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Audi R8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1986 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 (430 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Mercedes-Benz S. (330 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2009 Audi R8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Mercedes-Benz S. 1986 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2009 Audi R8 has manual transmission. 2009 Audi R8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1986 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi R8 | 1986 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | R8 | S |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 4163 cc | 4196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 430 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | AWD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1555 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2950 mm |
