1983 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2011 Audi A1
To start off, 2011 Audi A1 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1983 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Mercedes-Benz S (154 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 2011 Audi A1. (104 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1983 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2011 Audi A1. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 520 kg more than 2011 Audi A1. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1983 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Audi A1, 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, 2011 Audi A1 (250 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Mercedes-Benz S. (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Audi A1 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Mercedes-Benz S | 2011 Audi A1 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
| Model | S | A1 |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 154 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 223 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1040 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 3954 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1416 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2469 mm |
