1981 Audi 100 vs. 2009 Ford Shelby GT 500
To start off, 2009 Ford Shelby GT 500 is newer by 28 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 5,409 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Ford Shelby GT 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Shelby GT 500 (500 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 415 more horse power than 1981 Audi 100. (85 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Shelby GT 500 should accelerate faster than 1981 Audi 100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Audi 100 weights approximately 138 kg more than 2009 Ford Shelby GT 500.
Because 2009 Ford Shelby GT 500 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 2009 Ford Shelby GT 500. 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, 2009 Ford Shelby GT 500 (651 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 527 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Audi 100. (124 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Shelby GT 500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Audi 100.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Audi 100 | 2009 Ford Shelby GT 500 | |
| Make | Audi | Ford |
| Model | 100 | Shelby GT 500 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 5409 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 500 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 651 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 972 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2730 mm |
