1980 Audi 80 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 25 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 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (604 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 551 more horse power than 1980 Audi 80. (53 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1980 Audi 80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1088 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (1,001 Nm) has 897 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Audi 80. (104 Nm). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Audi 80.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Audi 80 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 80 | SL |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 5980 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 604 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 1001 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.5 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 23.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 972 kg | 2060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4390 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 80 L |
