1998 Audi A6 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Audi A6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Audi A6 would be higher. At 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (604 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 404 more horse power than 1998 Audi A6. (200 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1998 Audi A6.
Because 1998 Audi A6 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Audi A6 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (998 Nm) has 727 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Audi A6. (271 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Audi A6. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1998 Audi A6 has manual transmission. 1998 Audi A6 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Audi A6 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A6 | SL |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2771 cc | 5980 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 604 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 998 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.6:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 235 km/hour | 245 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 2040 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2570 mm |
