1978 Audi 100 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E500
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E500 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 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz E500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E500 (302 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 232 more horse power than 1978 Audi 100. (70 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E500 should accelerate faster than 1978 Audi 100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E500 weights approximately 709 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 E500 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Audi 100. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E500 will offer significantly more control. 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 E500 (460 Nm) has 335 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Audi 100. (125 Nm). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz E500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Audi 100. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E500 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. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E500 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Audi 100 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz E500 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 100 | E500 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1986 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 460 Nm |
| 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 |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1210 kg | 1919 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 80 L |
