1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2012 Audi A4
To start off, 2012 Audi A4 is newer by 14 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, 2012 Audi A4 (211 HP @ 4300 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (204 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 170 kg more than 2012 Audi A4.
Because 2012 Audi A4 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Audi A4 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, 2012 Audi A4 (349 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (270 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2012 Audi A4 has manual transmission. 2012 Audi A4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2012 Audi A4 | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
Model | SL | A4 |
Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2799 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 204 HP | 211 HP |
Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 4300 RPM |
Torque | 270 Nm | 349 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1810 kg | 1640 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4704 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1829 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1427 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2809 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 64 L |