2005 Audi A4 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Audi A4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Audi A4 would be higher. At 5,982 cc (12 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL (605 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 418 more horse power than 2005 Audi A4. (187 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2005 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 205 kg more than 2005 Audi A4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 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 2006 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL (1,001 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 761 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Audi A4. (240 Nm @ 1980 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Audi A4. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2005 Audi A4 has manual transmission. 2005 Audi A4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi A4 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A4 | SL |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 5982 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 187 HP | 605 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 1001 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1980 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.2 seconds | 4.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1600 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.6 L/100km | 15.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |
