1999 Audi R8 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Audi R8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Audi R8 would be higher. At 3,722 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Audi R8 (610 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 368 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. (242 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Audi R8 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1753 kg more than 1999 Audi R8.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 R8 (705 Nm) has 355 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. (350 Nm). This means 1999 Audi R8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Audi R8 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | R8 | SL |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3596 cc | 3722 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 610 HP | 242 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 705 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2 kg | 1755 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1090 mm | 1300 mm |
