2001 Audi A6 vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2001 Audi A6 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 4,971 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL (315 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 2001 Audi A6. (252 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2001 Audi A6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 49 kg more than 2001 Audi A6. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 Audi A6 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Audi A6 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL (468 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 118 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Audi A6. (350 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Audi A6.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Audi A6 | 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A6 | SL |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2671 cc | 4971 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 252 HP | 315 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 468 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 246 km/hour | 249 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1720 kg | 1769 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |
