1981 Audi 100 vs. 1995 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 1995 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 14 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 2,797 cc (6 cylinders), 1995 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 Mercedes-Benz S (190 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 1981 Audi 100. (85 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1995 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1981 Audi 100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 780 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 1995 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 1995 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, 1995 Mercedes-Benz S (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 146 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Audi 100. (124 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1995 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 | 1995 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 100 | S |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1995 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 2797 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 1890 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 5120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2410 mm |
