2005 Audi A4 vs. 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2005 Audi A4 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,962 cc (6 cylinders), 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL (228 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 2005 Audi A4. (187 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2005 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Audi A4 weights approximately 255 kg more than 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 1990 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 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL (267 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Audi A4. (240 Nm @ 1950 RPM). This means 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Audi A4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi A4 | 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A4 | SL |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1779 cc | 2962 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 187 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 267 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1950 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1945 kg | 1690 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |
