1997 Audi A4 vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL
To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Audi A4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Audi A4 would be higher. At 4,600 cc (8 cylinders), 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL (357 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 257 more horse power than 1997 Audi A4. (100 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 1997 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 1240 kg more than 1997 Audi A4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Audi A4. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL (550 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 410 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Audi A4. (140 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Audi A4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Audi A4 | 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A4 | GL |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 4600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | electric |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 357 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 550 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81.1 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.5 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1185 kg | 2425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 5120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 2141 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 3075 mm |
