2004 Audi A4 vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2004 Audi A4 is newer by 6 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 2,798 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (204 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 2004 Audi A4. (187 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 270 kg more than 2004 Audi A4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Audi A4 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Audi A4 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, 2004 Audi A4 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (270 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A4 | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A4 | SL |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 2798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 187 HP | 204 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 73.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.1:1 |
| Top Speed | 233 km/hour | 232 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.5 seconds | 9.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 1810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 80 L |
