1973 Audi 80 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Audi 80. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Audi 80 would be higher. At 6,000 cc (12 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S (621 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 546 more horse power than 1973 Audi 80. (75 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1973 Audi 80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1393 kg more than 1973 Audi 80. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Mercedes-Benz S is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2012 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1973 Audi 80, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S (999 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 887 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Audi 80. (112 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Audi 80. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1973 Audi 80 has manual transmission. 1973 Audi 80 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Audi 80 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 80 | S |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 6000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 621 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 112 Nm | 999 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 912 kg | 2305 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4390 mm | 5245 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1872 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 3165 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 90 L |
