1981 Audi 80 vs. 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Audi 80. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Audi 80 would be higher. At 2,962 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL (228 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 1981 Audi 80. (136 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1981 Audi 80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 500 kg more than 1981 Audi 80. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Audi 80 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Audi 80 will offer significantly more control. 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, 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL (267 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 91 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Audi 80. (176 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Audi 80.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Audi 80 | 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 80 | SL |
Year Released | 1981 | 1989 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2144 cc | 2962 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 136 HP | 228 HP |
Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 6400 RPM |
Torque | 176 Nm | 267 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4600 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 79.5 mm | 88.6 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 80.3 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1690 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4390 mm | 4480 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2520 mm |