1989 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2007 Audi A6

To start off, 2007 Audi A6 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,962 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL (228 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 2007 Audi A6. (178 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2007 Audi A6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Audi A6 weights approximately 200 kg more than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL.

Because 2007 Audi A6 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Audi A6 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, 2007 Audi A6 (370 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 103 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. (267 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2007 Audi A6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. 2007 Audi A6 has automatic transmission and 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL has manual transmission. 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Audi A6 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1989 Mercedes-Benz SL 2007 Audi A6
Make Mercedes-Benz Audi
Model SL A6
Year Released 1989 2007
Body Type Convertible Station Wagon
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2962 cc 2496 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 228 HP 178 HP
Engine RPM 6400 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 267 Nm 370 Nm
Torque RPM 4600 RPM 1500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 88.6 mm 78.4 mm
Engine Stroke Size 80.3 mm 86.4 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.0:1 19.0:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Diesel
Drive Type Rear 4WD
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1690 kg 1890 kg
Vehicle Length 4480 mm 4820 mm
Vehicle Width 1820 mm 1860 mm
Vehicle Height 1300 mm 1560 mm
Wheelbase Size 2520 mm 2760 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 80 L 70 L