1981 Audi 100 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 25 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), 2006 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E (148 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 1981 Audi 100. (85 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1981 Audi 100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 675 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 2006 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 2006 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E (340 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 216 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Audi 100. (124 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2006 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 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 100 | E |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2006 |
| 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 | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2000 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 | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 1785 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 70 L |
