1996 Audi A4 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Audi A4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Audi A4 would be higher. At 5,459 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL (383 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 282 more horse power than 1996 Audi A4. (101 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 1260 kg more than 1996 Audi A4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Audi A4. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 390 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A4. (140 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A4. 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL has automatic transmission and 1996 Audi A4 has manual transmission. 1996 Audi A4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A4 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A4 | GL |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 5459 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 383 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 98 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.5 mm | 90.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1185 kg | 2445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 5090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 3080 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 100 L |
