1978 Audi 100 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 27 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 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (221 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 151 more horse power than 1978 Audi 100. (70 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1978 Audi 100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 470 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 2005 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (400 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 275 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Audi 100. (125 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Audi 100.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Audi 100 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 100 | C |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1986 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 221 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 23.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1210 kg | 1680 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 62 L |
