2001 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1977 Audi 80
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Audi 80. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Audi 80 would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 227 more horse power than 1977 Audi 80. (75 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1977 Audi 80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 933 kg more than 1977 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, 1977 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 (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 348 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Audi 80. (112 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Audi 80. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1977 Audi 80 has manual transmission. 1977 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:
| 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1977 Audi 80 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
| Model | SL | 80 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4966 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 75 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 460 Nm | 112 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1845 kg | 912 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4390 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2550 mm |
