1985 Audi 100 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 26 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 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 312 more horse power than 1985 Audi 100. (70 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1985 Audi 100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 654 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 2011 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 2011 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 407 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Audi 100. (123 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Audi 100. 2011 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. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Audi 100 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 100 | SL |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1986 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 382 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 123 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1914 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4582 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1816 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1298 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2560 mm |
