1981 Audi 80 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL is newer by 23 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 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 166 more horse power than 1981 Audi 80. (136 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL should accelerate faster than 1981 Audi 80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL weights approximately 675 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL. 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 284 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Audi 80. (176 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Audi 80. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL 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. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Audi 80 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 80 | CL |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2144 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 136 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.5 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 193 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1865 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4390 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2720 mm |
