1975 Audi 80 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C

To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Audi 80. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Audi 80 would be higher. At 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C (263 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 153 more horse power than 1975 Audi 80. (110 HP @ 6100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1975 Audi 80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 848 kg more than 1975 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 C 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 C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1975 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 C (620 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 480 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Audi 80. (140 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Audi 80. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1975 Audi 80 has manual transmission. 1975 Audi 80 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1975 Audi 80 2012 Mercedes-Benz C
Make Audi Mercedes-Benz
Model 80 C
Year Released 1975 2012
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1588 cc 2987 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 110 HP 263 HP
Engine RPM 6100 RPM 3800 RPM
Torque 140 Nm 620 Nm
Torque RPM 5000 RPM 1600 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 9.2:1 16.2:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Diesel
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual 7-speed shiftable automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 912 kg 1760 kg
Vehicle Length 4390 mm 4606 mm
Vehicle Width 1690 mm 1770 mm
Vehicle Height 1370 mm 1459 mm
Wheelbase Size 2550 mm 2760 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 60 L 66 L