2004 Audi A6 vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2004 Audi A6 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 2,799 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi A6 (247 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (204 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A6 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 88 kg more than 2004 Audi A6.
Because 1998 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Audi A6, 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, 2004 Audi A6 (350 Nm) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (270 Nm). This means 2004 Audi A6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A6 | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A6 | SL |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2671 cc | 2799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 204 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 73.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 10.1:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1722 kg | 1810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1940 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |
