1968 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2009 Audi A4
To start off, 2009 Audi A4 is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,975 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Audi A4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A4 (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL. (150 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A4 weights approximately 250 kg more than 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Audi A4 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Audi A4 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2009 Audi A4 (300 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 84 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL. (216 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2009 Audi A4 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
| Model | SL | A4 |
| Year Released | 1968 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2495 cc | 2975 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 66 L |
