1979 Audi 100 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 29 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 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK (355 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 270 more horse power than 1979 Audi 100. (85 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1979 Audi 100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 430 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK (510 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 386 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Audi 100. (124 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Audi 100. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Audi 100 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 100 | SLK |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 355 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 510 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2440 mm |
