1981 Audi 100 vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 15 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 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL (317 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 232 more horse power than 1981 Audi 100. (85 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1981 Audi 100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 730 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 1996 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL (471 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 347 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Audi 100. (124 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Audi 100. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1981 Audi 100 has manual transmission. 1981 Audi 100 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Audi 100 | 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 100 | SL |
Year Released | 1981 | 1996 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 4973 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 85 HP | 317 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 124 Nm | 471 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3900 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 79.5 mm | 96.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 85 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 1840 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4470 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 80 L |