1981 Audi 80 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 24 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 2,685 cc (5 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (168 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 109 more horse power than 1981 Audi 80. (59 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1981 Audi 80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 655 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Audi 80, 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (400 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 300 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Audi 80. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Audi 80.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Audi 80 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 80 | C |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1296 cc | 2685 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 100 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.2:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4390 mm | 4650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 62 L |
