2004 Audi A4 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 8 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL (311 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 2004 Audi A4. (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 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 2012 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL (360 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A4. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2012 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 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A4 | SL |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 311 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 230 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8 seconds | 6.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4582 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1298 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 80 L |
