1989 Audi 100 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 23 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 6,208 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL (518 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 384 more horse power than 1989 Audi 100. (134 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1989 Audi 100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 685 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 2012 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 2012 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL (630 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 443 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Audi 100. (187 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Audi 100. 2012 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Audi 100 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 100 | SL |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2226 cc | 6208 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 518 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 630 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1254 kg | 1939 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4592 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1298 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 80 L |
