2003 Audi A6 vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2003 Audi A6 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,987 cc (12 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL (376 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 2003 Audi A6. (296 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2003 Audi A6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Audi A6 weights approximately 18 kg more than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 2003 Audi A6 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL (580 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 180 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Audi A6. (400 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Audi A6.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Audi A6 | 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A6 | SL |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4172 cc | 5987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 296 HP | 376 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 580 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1818 kg | 1800 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 82 L | 80 L |
