Germany vs Germany — 1991 vs 1990
| S4 C4 UrS4 2.2 20V Turbo | 500E W124 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 230 hp | 326 hp |
| Torque | 258 lb-ft | 354 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 2,226 cc | 4,973 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 5.9 sec | 5.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 155 mph | 155 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 14.3 sec | 14.0 sec |
| Weight | 3,704 lbs | 3,770 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,693 mm | 2,800 mm |
| Length | 4,790 mm | 4,740 mm |
| Units Produced | 7,298 | 10,479 |
| Original MSRP | $43,950 | $75,000 |
| Value (Excellent) | $60,000 | $150,000 |
| Collectibility | 7/10 | 9/10 |
| Rarity | 6/10 | 8/10 |
Numbers favor the 1990 Mercedes-Benz 500E W124 with more power, quicker acceleration, stronger collectibility. The 1991 Audi S4 C4 UrS4 2.2 20V Turbo offers better value, and has its own devoted following. For those who let their heart decide, either car delivers a rewarding ownership experience.
In the world of Sports Sedan cars, few comparisons generate as much discussion as the 1991 Audi S4 C4 UrS4 2.2 20V Turbo versus the 1990 Mercedes-Benz 500E W124. Both hail from Modern classic and represent the pinnacle of their respective manufacturers' ambitions. The 1990 Mercedes-Benz 500E W124 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 326 hp compared to 230 hp, a 96-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Audi S4 uses a Inline-5 DOHC 20V Turbo displacing 2,226 cc, while the Mercedes-Benz 500E relies on a V8 with 4,973 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1990 Mercedes-Benz 500E W124 edges ahead at 5.5 seconds versus 5.9 seconds. On the collector market, the 1990 Mercedes-Benz 500E W124 commands a significant premium over the 1991 Audi S4 C4 UrS4 2.2 20V Turbo, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1990 Mercedes-Benz 500E W124 rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.