1988 Audi 80 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz S

To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Audi 80. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Audi 80 would be higher. At 5,461 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S (383 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 309 more horse power than 1988 Audi 80. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1988 Audi 80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 305 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz S 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 S. 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 410 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Audi 80. (120 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Audi 80. 2009 Mercedes-Benz S 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. 2009 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1988 Audi 80 2009 Mercedes-Benz S
Make Audi Mercedes-Benz
Model 80 S
Year Released 1988 2009
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1593 cc 5461 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 74 HP 383 HP
Engine RPM 5200 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 120 Nm 530 Nm
Torque RPM 2500 RPM 2800 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Diesel
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1020 kg 1325 kg
Vehicle Length 4400 mm 5210 mm
Vehicle Width 1700 mm 1880 mm
Vehicle Height 1400 mm 1480 mm
Wheelbase Size 2550 mm 3170 mm