1978 Audi 100 vs. 1999 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 1999 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 21 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 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mercedes-Benz E (114 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1978 Audi 100. (85 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1978 Audi 100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 490 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 1999 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 1999 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, 1999 Mercedes-Benz E (250 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 126 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Audi 100. (124 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1999 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Audi 100. 1999 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 1978 Audi 100 has manual transmission. 1978 Audi 100 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Audi 100 | 1999 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 100 | E |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2148 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 1600 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2970 mm |
