1981 Audi 100 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CL
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CL is newer by 31 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 4,663 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CL (432 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 347 more horse power than 1981 Audi 100. (85 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CL should accelerate faster than 1981 Audi 100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CL weights approximately 1110 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz CL 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz CL. 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CL (700 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 576 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Audi 100. (124 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz CL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Audi 100. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CL 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Audi 100 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz CL | |
Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 100 | CL |
Year Released | 1981 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 4663 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 85 HP | 432 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5250 RPM |
Torque | 124 Nm | 700 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 2220 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 5095 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1872 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1417 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2954 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 90 L |