1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2012 Audi RS5
To start off, 2012 Audi RS5 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 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Audi RS5 (354 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi RS5 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 140 kg more than 2012 Audi RS5.
Because 2012 Audi RS5 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 RS5 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (461 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Audi RS5. (440 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Audi RS5. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2012 Audi RS5 has manual transmission. 2012 Audi RS5 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 RS5 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
| Model | SL | RS5 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4966 cc | 4200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 354 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 461 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1890 kg | 1750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4625 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1854 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1372 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2751 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 9.6 L/100km | 10.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 17.9 L/100km | 16.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 63 L |
