2003 Audi A4 vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2003 Audi A4 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,987 cc (12 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (389 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 276 more horse power than 2003 Audi A4. (113 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2003 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 755 kg more than 2003 Audi A4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (570 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 422 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Audi A4. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Audi A4. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2003 Audi A4 has manual transmission. 2003 Audi A4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Audi A4 | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A4 | SL |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 5987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 389 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 570 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81.1 mm | 89.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 80.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 2050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |
