1978 Audi 100 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 31 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 5,461 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 297 more horse power than 1978 Audi 100. (85 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1978 Audi 100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1722 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 2009 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 2009 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 406 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Audi 100. (124 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Audi 100. 2009 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. 2009 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Audi 100 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 100 | S |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 5461 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 382 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.5 mm | 98 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 90.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 2832 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 5080 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1480 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1880 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 3040 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 90 L |
