1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2011 Audi A5
To start off, 2011 Audi A5 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,799 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (204 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 2011 Audi A5. (158 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2011 Audi A5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 50 kg more than 2011 Audi A5. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Audi A5, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (270 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Audi A5. (250 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Audi A5.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2011 Audi A5 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
| Model | SL | A5 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2799 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 204 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1810 kg | 1760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4623 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1852 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1382 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2751 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 67 L |
