1980 Audi 80 vs. 1989 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 1989 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 9 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 2,599 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mercedes-Benz S (164 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 1980 Audi 80. (53 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1980 Audi 80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 540 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 1989 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 1989 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 1989 Mercedes-Benz S (228 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 124 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Audi 80. (104 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1989 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Audi 80.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Audi 80 | 1989 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 80 | S |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 2599 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 164 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.5 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 980 kg | 1520 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4390 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2950 mm |
