1998 Audi A4 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Audi A4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Audi A4 would be higher. At 4,663 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL (335 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 235 more horse power than 1998 Audi A4. (100 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 1998 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 1230 kg more than 1998 Audi A4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Audi A4. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 320 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Audi A4. (140 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Audi A4. 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL has automatic transmission and 1998 Audi A4 has manual transmission. 1998 Audi A4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Audi A4 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A4 | GL |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 4663 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 335 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 2430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 5090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 3080 mm |
