2004 Audi A4 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 7 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 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL (228 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 2004 Audi A4. (201 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A4.
Because 2004 Audi A4 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2011 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 (451 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 151 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL. (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2004 Audi A4 has manual transmission. 2004 Audi A4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A4 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A4 | SL |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2967 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 451 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 235 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.2 seconds | 7.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4582 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1298 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 80 L |
