1989 Audi 80 vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 1989 Audi 80 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Mercedes-Benz S (157 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 1989 Audi 80. (67 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1989 Audi 80.
Because 1978 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 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 1978 Mercedes-Benz S (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Audi 80. (129 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1978 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Audi 80.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Audi 80 | 1978 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 80 | S |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 157 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 129 Nm | 223 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2870 mm |
