1991 Audi 100 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS

To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Audi 100. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Audi 100 would be higher. At 4,663 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS (402 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 289 more horse power than 1991 Audi 100. (113 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 1991 Audi 100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 417 kg more than 1991 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 CLS 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 CLS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 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 CLS (600 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 335 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Audi 100. (265 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Audi 100. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS has automatic transmission and 1991 Audi 100 has manual transmission. 1991 Audi 100 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1991 Audi 100 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS
Make Audi Mercedes-Benz
Model 100 CLS
Year Released 1991 2012
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2461 cc 4663 cc
Engine Cylinders 5 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 113 HP 402 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 5000 RPM
Torque 265 Nm 600 Nm
Torque RPM 2250 RPM 1800 RPM
Fuel Type Diesel Gasoline
Top Speed 187 km/hour 250 km/hour
Acceleration 0-100mph 11.6 seconds 5.2 seconds
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual 7-speed shiftable automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1473 kg 1890 kg
Vehicle Length 4810 mm 4940 mm
Vehicle Width 1790 mm 1882 mm
Vehicle Height 1450 mm 1417 mm
Wheelbase Size 2700 mm 2875 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 80 L 80 L