2004 Audi A4 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Audi A4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Audi A4 would be higher. At 6,208 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (518 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 348 more horse power than 2004 Audi A4. (170 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A4 weights approximately 410 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 2009 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (630 Nm) has 395 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A4. (235 Nm). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A4 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A4 | SL |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1784 cc | 6208 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 518 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 630 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 102.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 94.6 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1650 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1480 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption City | 10.2 L/100km | 19.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.1 L/100km | 16.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |
