1987 Audi 80 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Audi 80. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Audi 80 would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS (305 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 231 more horse power than 1987 Audi 80. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 1987 Audi 80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 715 kg more than 1987 Audi 80. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Audi 80, 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS (370 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 250 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Audi 80. (120 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Audi 80. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS has automatic transmission and 1987 Audi 80 has manual transmission. 1987 Audi 80 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Audi 80 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 80 | CLS |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 305 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 120 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1735 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1882 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1417 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2875 mm |
