1989 Audi 80 vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Audi 80. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Audi 80 would be higher. At 5,786 cc (12 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz S (362 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 295 more horse power than 1989 Audi 80. (67 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1989 Audi 80.
Because 1998 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 1998 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz S (530 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 401 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Audi 80. (129 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Audi 80. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1989 Audi 80 has manual transmission. 1989 Audi 80 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Audi 80 | 1998 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 80 | S |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 5786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 362 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 129 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 5160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 3090 mm |
