1997 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1988 Audi V8
To start off, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Audi V8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Audi V8 would be higher. At 4,971 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL (315 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 1988 Audi V8. (247 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1988 Audi V8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Audi V8 weights approximately 21 kg more than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 1988 Audi V8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL (468 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 128 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Audi V8. (340 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Audi V8. 1988 Audi V8 has automatic transmission and 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL has manual transmission. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1988 Audi V8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1988 Audi V8 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
| Model | SL | V8 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4971 cc | 3562 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 315 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 468 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.5 mm | 81.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1769 kg | 1790 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 80 L |
