2005 Audi A4 vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2005 Audi A4 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL (317 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 2005 Audi A4. (247 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2005 Audi A4.
Because 2005 Audi A4 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL (471 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 151 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Audi A4. (320 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 1996 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 | 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A4 | SL |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2983 cc | 4973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 317 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 471 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.5 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 85 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2520 mm |
