2001 Audi A2 vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2001 Audi A2 is newer by 23 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 68 more horse power than 2001 Audi A2. (89 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2001 Audi A2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 580 kg more than 2001 Audi A2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2001 Audi A2, 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 Audi A2 (230 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2001 Audi A2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Audi A2 | 1978 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A2 | S |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1422 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 157 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 223 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.5 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 8.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3830 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2870 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 85 L |
