'80's audi door handle question

[TM]

The thing I'd like to know is why VW is currently using Mercedes-style
door handles (where the whole handle is pulled out to open the door)
while Audi uses the flap handles. I personally think the Mercedes-style
handles are better and are much stronger (at least in the M-B application).

BTW, I've had three cars which had problematic door handles:
'85 4ks
'85 VW Jetta GLI
'86 5ktq

All of these cars had the trigger-type door handles which, IMHO, suck.

Taka
'86 5ktq (for sale)
'91 200q
'92 DSM AWD (for sale)