1988 Audi 80 vs. 1982 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 1988 Audi 80 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,998 cc (5 cylinders), 1982 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1982 Mercedes-Benz 300 (123 HP @ 4350 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1988 Audi 80. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1982 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 1988 Audi 80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 600 kg more than 1988 Audi 80. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1982 Mercedes-Benz 300 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 1982 Mercedes-Benz 300. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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, 1982 Mercedes-Benz 300 (250 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Audi 80. (120 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1982 Mercedes-Benz 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Audi 80. 1982 Mercedes-Benz 300 has automatic transmission and 1988 Audi 80 has manual transmission. 1988 Audi 80 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1982 Mercedes-Benz 300 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Audi 80 | 1982 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 80 | 300 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1593 cc | 2998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4350 RPM |
| Torque | 120 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1620 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2800 mm |
