1990 Audi 100 vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Audi 100. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Audi 100 would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 403 more horse power than 1990 Audi 100. (90 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1990 Audi 100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 865 kg more than 1990 Audi 100. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL (700 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 555 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Audi 100. (145 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Audi 100. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1990 Audi 100 has manual transmission. 1990 Audi 100 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Audi 100 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 100 | SL |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1779 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1090 kg | 1955 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 80 L |
