1978 Audi 100 vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 25 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 4,964 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 232 more horse power than 1978 Audi 100. (70 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1978 Audi 100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 665 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 2003 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 335 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Audi 100. (125 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Audi 100. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S 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. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Audi 100 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 100 | S |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1986 cc | 4964 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.5 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 23.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1210 kg | 1875 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 88 L |
