1996 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2011 Audi S4
To start off, 2011 Audi S4 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,956 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL (375 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 2011 Audi S4. (333 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2011 Audi S4.
Because 2011 Audi S4 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Audi S4 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL (580 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Audi S4. (440 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Audi S4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2011 Audi S4 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
| Model | SL | S4 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5956 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 375 HP | 333 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 580 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2900 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 7-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4704 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1427 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2809 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 11.7 L/100km | 8.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 16.2 L/100km | 13.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 64 L |
