1999 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2011 Audi S5
To start off, 2011 Audi S5 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Audi S5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Audi S5 (333 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 143 more horse power than 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL. (190 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Audi S5 should accelerate faster than 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Audi S5 weights approximately 195 kg more than 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 Audi S5 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Audi S5 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, 2011 Audi S5 (440 Nm @ 2900 RPM) has 169 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL. (271 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2011 Audi S5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2011 Audi S5 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
| Model | SL | S5 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2799 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 333 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1760 kg | 1955 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4623 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1852 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1382 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2751 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 64 L |
