1981 Audi 100 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 24 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 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E (120 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1981 Audi 100. (85 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1981 Audi 100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 490 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz E 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz E. 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E (270 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 146 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Audi 100. (124 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Audi 100.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Audi 100 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 100 | E |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2148 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.5 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 1600 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 62 L |
