2006 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1973 Audi 80
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Audi 80. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Audi 80 would be higher. At 5,441 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL (494 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 419 more horse power than 1973 Audi 80. (75 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1973 Audi 80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 873 kg more than 1973 Audi 80. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1973 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL (700 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 588 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Audi 80. (112 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Audi 80. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1973 Audi 80 has manual transmission. 1973 Audi 80 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1973 Audi 80 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
| Model | SL | 80 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5441 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 494 HP | 75 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 700 Nm | 112 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 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 | 1785 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 |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 60 L |
