2001 Audi A6 vs. 1980 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2001 Audi A6 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 3,818 cc (8 cylinders), 1980 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Mercedes-Benz S (218 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 2001 Audi A6. (174 HP @ 3300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2001 Audi A6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Audi A6 weights approximately 100 kg more than 1980 Mercedes-Benz S.
Because 1980 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 1980 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Audi A6, 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 A6 (370 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mercedes-Benz S. (306 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2001 Audi A6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Mercedes-Benz S. 1980 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2001 Audi A6 has manual transmission. 2001 Audi A6 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1980 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Audi A6 | 1980 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A6 | S |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2698 cc | 3818 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 174 HP | 218 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 370 Nm | 306 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 71.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1695 kg | 1595 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4940 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2950 mm |
