1980 Audi 80 vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 1997 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 17 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 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz E (349 HP) has 290 more horse power than 1980 Audi 80. (59 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1980 Audi 80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 760 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 1997 Mercedes-Benz E 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 1997 Mercedes-Benz E. 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz E (531 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 430 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Audi 80. (101 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Audi 80. 1997 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 1980 Audi 80 has manual transmission. 1980 Audi 80 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Audi 80 | 1997 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 80 | E |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1296 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 349 HP |
| Torque | 101 Nm | 531 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.4 mm | 92 mm |
| Top Speed | 150 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 1710 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4390 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 80 L |
