1989 Audi 100 vs. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Audi 100. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Audi 100 would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 184 more horse power than 1989 Audi 100. (118 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1989 Audi 100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 525 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 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 194 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Audi 100. (266 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Audi 100. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1989 Audi 100 has manual transmission. 1989 Audi 100 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Audi 100 | 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 100 | SL |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2460 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 266 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2250 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Top Speed | 200 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.9 seconds | 6.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 1845 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2570 mm |
