2002 Audi A6 vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2002 Audi A6 is newer by 5 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 2,976 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Audi A6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Audi A6 (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. (190 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Audi A6 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 115 kg more than 2002 Audi A6.
Because 2002 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, 2002 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, 2002 Audi A6 (330 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2002 Audi A6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2002 Audi A6 has manual transmission. 2002 Audi A6 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Audi A6 | 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A6 | SL |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2976 cc | 2799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 73.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1645 kg | 1760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |
