1979 Audi 100 vs. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420
To start off, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Audi 100. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Audi 100 would be higher. At 4,196 cc (8 cylinders), 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 (231 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 146 more horse power than 1979 Audi 100. (85 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 should accelerate faster than 1979 Audi 100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 weights approximately 515 kg more than 1979 Audi 100. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 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 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 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, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 (327 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 203 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Audi 100. (124 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Audi 100. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 has automatic transmission and 1979 Audi 100 has manual transmission. 1979 Audi 100 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Audi 100 | 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 100 | 420 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 4196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 231 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 327 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 1625 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 2010 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 3080 mm |
