1981 Audi 100 vs. 1975 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 1981 Audi 100 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 6,834 cc (8 cylinders), 1975 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1975 Mercedes-Benz S (283 HP @ 4250 RPM) has 198 more horse power than 1981 Audi 100. (85 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1975 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1981 Audi 100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1975 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1310 kg more than 1981 Audi 100. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1975 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 1975 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Audi 100, 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, 1975 Mercedes-Benz S (549 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 425 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Audi 100. (124 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1975 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Audi 100.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Audi 100 | 1975 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 100 | S |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1975 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 6834 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 283 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 549 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 2420 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2870 mm |
