1990 Audi 80 vs. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Audi 80. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Audi 80 would be higher. At 5,437 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL (469 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 395 more horse power than 1990 Audi 80. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1990 Audi 80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 935 kg more than 1990 Audi 80. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 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 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 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, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL (700 Nm @ 2650 RPM) has 579 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Audi 80. (121 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Audi 80. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1990 Audi 80 has manual transmission. 1990 Audi 80 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Audi 80 | 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 80 | SL |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 5437 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 469 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 121 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2650 RPM |
| Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1955 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2570 mm |
