1986 Audi 80 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Audi 80. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Audi 80 would be higher. At 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 267 more horse power than 1986 Audi 80. (115 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1986 Audi 80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 765 kg more than 1986 Audi 80. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 Audi 80 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Audi 80 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 357 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Audi 80. (173 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Audi 80. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1986 Audi 80 has manual transmission. 1986 Audi 80 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Audi 80 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 80 | SL |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 382 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 173 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1905 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4582 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1298 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2560 mm |
