1991 Audi V8 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Audi V8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Audi V8 would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 213 more horse power than 1991 Audi V8. (280 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1991 Audi V8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 268 kg more than 1991 Audi V8. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1991 Audi V8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 Audi V8 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (700 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 300 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Audi V8. (400 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Audi V8.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Audi V8 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | V8 | SL |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4172 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 280 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.6:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 244 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.7 seconds | 4.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1712 kg | 1980 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2570 mm |
