2001 Audi A4 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Audi A4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Audi A4 would be higher. At 5,441 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 332 more horse power than 2001 Audi A4. (161 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2001 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 491 kg more than 2001 Audi A4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (700 Nm) has 469 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Audi A4. (231 Nm). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Audi A4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Audi A4 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A4 | SL |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2496 cc | 5441 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 231 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1921 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |
