2009 Audi R8 vs. 1991 Mercedes-Benz 400
To start off, 2009 Audi R8 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Mercedes-Benz 400. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Mercedes-Benz 400 would be higher. At 4,196 cc (8 cylinders), 1991 Mercedes-Benz 400 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi R8 (420 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 133 more horse power than 1991 Mercedes-Benz 400. (287 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi R8 should accelerate faster than 1991 Mercedes-Benz 400. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Mercedes-Benz 400 weights approximately 1105 kg more than 2009 Audi R8.
Because 2009 Audi R8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1991 Mercedes-Benz 400. 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 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Mercedes-Benz 400. (410 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2009 Audi R8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Mercedes-Benz 400.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi R8 | 1991 Mercedes-Benz 400 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | R8 | 400 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 4163 cc | 4196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 420 HP | 287 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7800 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 430 Nm | 410 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | AWD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 895 kg | 2000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 5110 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 3050 mm |
