1981 Audi 80 vs. 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 20 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 3,994 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML (247 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 188 more horse power than 1981 Audi 80. (59 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1981 Audi 80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 1405 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 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Audi 80. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML 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, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML (560 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 460 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Audi 80. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Audi 80. 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML has automatic transmission and 1981 Audi 80 has manual transmission. 1981 Audi 80 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Audi 80 | 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 80 | ML |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1296 cc | 3994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 100 Nm | 560 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.2:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 2335 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4390 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 83 L |
