1989 Audi 100 vs. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420
To start off, 1989 Audi 100 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 would be higher. At 4,196 cc (8 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 (219 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1989 Audi 100. (163 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 should accelerate faster than 1989 Audi 100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 weights approximately 300 kg more than 1989 Audi 100. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 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 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 (329 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Audi 100. (235 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Audi 100.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Audi 100 | 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 100 | 420 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2226 cc | 4196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 219 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 329 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1600 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2460 mm |
