1981 Audi 100 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 23 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK (161 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1981 Audi 100. (85 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1981 Audi 100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 155 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK (241 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 117 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Audi 100. (124 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Audi 100. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Audi 100 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 100 | SLK |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 241 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.5 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 85 mm |
| 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 | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 70 L |
