1980 Audi 80 vs. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Audi 80. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Audi 80 would be higher. At 2,962 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 (185 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 132 more horse power than 1980 Audi 80. (53 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 1980 Audi 80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 610 kg more than 1980 Audi 80. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 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 300. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Audi 80, 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 300 (260 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 156 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Audi 80. (104 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Audi 80.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Audi 80 | 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 80 | 300 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 2962 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 23.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 144 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 980 kg | 1590 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4390 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 72 L |
