1980 Audi Quattro vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Audi Quattro. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Audi Quattro would be higher. At 3,197 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (224 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1980 Audi Quattro. (200 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1980 Audi Quattro. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 540 kg more than 1980 Audi Quattro. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 Audi Quattro is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Audi Quattro will offer significantly more control. 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (315 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Audi Quattro. (285 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Audi Quattro. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1980 Audi Quattro has manual transmission. 1980 Audi Quattro will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Audi Quattro | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Quattro | SL |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2143 cc | 3197 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 224 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.5 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.0:1 | 10.1:1 |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 238 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 1830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |
