1985 Audi 100 vs. 1974 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 1985 Audi 100 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 3,499 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Mercedes-Benz S (198 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 1985 Audi 100. (70 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1985 Audi 100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 415 kg more than 1985 Audi 100. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 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 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 Audi 100, 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, 1974 Mercedes-Benz S (286 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 163 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Audi 100. (123 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1974 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Audi 100.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Audi 100 | 1974 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 100 | S |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1986 cc | 3499 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 198 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 123 Nm | 286 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1675 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2870 mm |
