1981 Audi 100 vs. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 26 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 5,461 cc (8 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL (383 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 298 more horse power than 1981 Audi 100. (85 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1981 Audi 100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 800 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 2007 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 2007 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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 406 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Audi 100. (124 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Audi 100. 2007 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. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Audi 100 | 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 100 | SL |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 5461 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 383 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 1910 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2570 mm |
