2005 Audi A4 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 7 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL (311 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 2005 Audi A4. (218 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2005 Audi A4.
Because 2012 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 2012 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL (360 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Audi A4. (300 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2012 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 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A4 | SL |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2976 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 218 HP | 311 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Top Speed | 238 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.9 seconds | 6.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |
