1995 Audi A4 vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Audi A4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Audi A4 would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (349 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 201 more horse power than 1995 Audi A4. (148 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1995 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 523 kg more than 1995 Audi A4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1995 Audi A4, 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (530 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 320 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Audi A4. (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Audi A4. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1995 Audi A4 has manual transmission. 1995 Audi A4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 Audi A4 | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A4 | SL |
| Year Released | 1995 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 349 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1297 kg | 1820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 80 L |
