1997 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2010 Audi A5
To start off, 2010 Audi A5 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 4,971 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Audi A5 (328 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. (315 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Audi A5 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 9 kg more than 2010 Audi A5.
Because 2010 Audi A5 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 Audi A5 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 28 more torque (in Nm) than 2010 Audi A5. (440 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2010 Audi A5.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2010 Audi A5 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
| Model | SL | A5 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4971 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 315 HP | 328 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 468 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 2900 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1769 kg | 1760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4623 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1852 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1382 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2751 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 67 L |
