Audi S4

vs

Mercedes-Benz 190E

Germany vs Germany — 1991 vs 1992

Audi S4 (1991)
Mercedes-Benz 190E (1992)
Specifications
S4 C4 UrS4 2.2 20V Turbo190E 2.5-16 Evolution II
Horsepower230 hp235 hp
Torque258 lb-ft181 lb-ft
Engine Size2,226 cc2,463 cc
0-60 mph5.9 sec7.1 sec
Top Speed155 mph155 mph
¼ Mile14.3 sec15.4 sec
Weight3,704 lbs2,998 lbs
Wheelbase2,693 mm2,665 mm
Length4,790 mm4,475 mm
Units Produced7,298502
Original MSRP$43,950$75,000
Value (Excellent)$60,000$350,000
Collectibility7/109/10
Rarity6/109/10
The Verdict

This matchup is remarkably close. The 1991 Audi S4 C4 UrS4 2.2 20V Turbo offers quicker acceleration, better value, while the 1992 Mercedes-Benz 190E 2.5-16 Evolution II counters with lighter weight, greater rarity, stronger collectibility. Neither holds a decisive advantage, making this a true enthusiast's dilemma. Your choice ultimately depends on which driving philosophy resonates more with you.

Overview

The 1991 Audi S4 C4 UrS4 2.2 20V Turbo and 1992 Mercedes-Benz 190E 2.5-16 Evolution II stand as two of the most notable Sports Sedan cars from Modern classic. Both emerged during a period of intense competition, and choosing between them remains a passionate debate among collectors. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1991 Audi S4 C4 UrS4 2.2 20V Turbo producing 230 hp and the 1992 Mercedes-Benz 190E 2.5-16 Evolution II delivering 235 hp. 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 190E relies on a Inline-4 with 2,463 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1991 Audi S4 C4 UrS4 2.2 20V Turbo edges ahead at 5.9 seconds versus 7.1 seconds. The Mercedes-Benz 190E carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 706 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 502 units built, the 1992 Mercedes-Benz 190E 2.5-16 Evolution II is considerably scarcer than the Audi S4's 7,298 examples. On the collector market, the 1992 Mercedes-Benz 190E 2.5-16 Evolution II 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 1992 Mercedes-Benz 190E 2.5-16 Evolution II rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.