1978 Audi 100 vs. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 29 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 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 423 more horse power than 1978 Audi 100. (70 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1978 Audi 100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 746 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 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL (800 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 675 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Audi 100. (125 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Audi 100. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL 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. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Audi 100 | 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 100 | SL |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1986 cc | 5513 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 800 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.5 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 23.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1210 kg | 1956 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 90 L |
