1985 Audi 100 vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Audi 100. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Audi 100 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK (134 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1985 Audi 100. (100 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1985 Audi 100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 125 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 1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK (190 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Audi 100. (150 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Audi 100.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Audi 100 | 1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 100 | SLK |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1921 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1145 kg | 1270 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2410 mm |
