1981 Audi 100 vs. 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230
To start off, 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Audi 100. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Audi 100 would be higher. At 2,297 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 (130 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1981 Audi 100. (85 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 should accelerate faster than 1981 Audi 100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 weights approximately 230 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 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 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 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230. 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, 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 (198 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Audi 100. (124 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Audi 100.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Audi 100 | 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 100 | 230 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 2297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 130 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 198 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2720 mm |
