1980 Audi 100 vs. 1995 Mercedes-Benz E420
To start off, 1995 Mercedes-Benz E420 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Audi 100. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Audi 100 would be higher. At 4,196 cc (8 cylinders), 1995 Mercedes-Benz E420 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 Mercedes-Benz E420 (275 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 190 more horse power than 1980 Audi 100. (85 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1995 Mercedes-Benz E420 should accelerate faster than 1980 Audi 100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Mercedes-Benz E420 weights approximately 936 kg more than 1980 Audi 100. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1995 Mercedes-Benz E420 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 1995 Mercedes-Benz E420. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 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, 1995 Mercedes-Benz E420 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 276 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Audi 100. (124 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1995 Mercedes-Benz E420 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Audi 100. 1995 Mercedes-Benz E420 has automatic transmission and 1980 Audi 100 has manual transmission. 1980 Audi 100 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1995 Mercedes-Benz E420 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Audi 100 | 1995 Mercedes-Benz E420 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 100 | E420 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1995 |
| 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 | 275 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1116 kg | 2052 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2840 mm |
