1985 Audi 100 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 24 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 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (661 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 525 more horse power than 1985 Audi 100. (136 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1985 Audi 100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 135 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (1,000 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 820 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Audi 100. (180 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Audi 100. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1985 Audi 100 has manual transmission. 1985 Audi 100 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Audi 100 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 100 | SL |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2144 cc | 5980 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 136 HP | 661 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 1000 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Top Speed | 196 km/hour | 320 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1365 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 5210 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2570 mm |
