2009 Audi RS4 vs. 1989 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2009 Audi RS4 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 4,161 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Audi RS4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi RS4 (414 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 250 more horse power than 1989 Mercedes-Benz S. (164 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi RS4 should accelerate faster than 1989 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi RS4 weights approximately 190 kg more than 1989 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 RS4 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 Mercedes-Benz S. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Audi RS4 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 RS4 (430 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 202 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mercedes-Benz S. (228 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2009 Audi RS4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi RS4 | 1989 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | RS4 | S |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4161 cc | 2599 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 164 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7800 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 430 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.5 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1710 kg | 1520 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2950 mm |
