2004 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2012 Audi R8
To start off, 2012 Audi R8 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (604 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 2012 Audi R8. (560 HP @ 8000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2012 Audi R8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 585 kg more than 2012 Audi R8. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Audi R8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Audi R8 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 Mercedes-Benz SL (998 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 459 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Audi R8. (539 Nm @ 6500 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Audi R8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2012 Audi R8 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
| Model | SL | R8 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 5980 cc | 5200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 10 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 604 HP | 560 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 8000 RPM |
| Torque | 998 Nm | 539 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2110 kg | 1525 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4435 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2040 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1267 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2649 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 75 L |
