1999 Audi A4 vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 1999 Audi A4 is newer by 1 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, 1999 Audi A4 (247 HP @ 4150 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (204 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 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 475 kg more than 1999 Audi A4.
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, 1999 Audi A4, 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, 1999 Audi A4 (321 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (270 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Audi A4 | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A4 | SL |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 2799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 204 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4150 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 321 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.5 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 73.5 mm |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 228 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.8 seconds | 9.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1335 kg | 1810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 80 L |
