1999 Audi A4 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Audi A4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Audi A4 would be higher. At 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (605 HP) has 482 more horse power than 1999 Audi A4. (123 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1999 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1600 kg more than 1999 Audi A4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 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 2009 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (1,000 Nm) has 827 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Audi A4. (173 Nm). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Audi A4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Audi A4 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A4 | SL |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 5980 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 605 HP |
| Torque | 173 Nm | 1000 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 2830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13 L/100km | 16.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 80 L |
