1989 Audi 100 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 15 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 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (604 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 490 more horse power than 1989 Audi 100. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1989 Audi 100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 860 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 2004 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 2004 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (998 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 823 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Audi 100. (175 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Audi 100. 2004 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. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Audi 100 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 100 | SL |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1992 cc | 5980 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 604 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 998 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 2110 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 2040 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2570 mm |
