1978 Audi 100 vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Audi 100. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Audi 100 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz E (134 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1978 Audi 100. (85 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1978 Audi 100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 450 kg more than 1978 Audi 100. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Mercedes-Benz E 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Audi 100, 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz E (191 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Audi 100. (124 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Audi 100.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Audi 100 | 1998 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 100 | E |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 191 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.5 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 78.7 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 70 L |
