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 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 234 more horse power than 2005 Audi A4. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2005 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 555 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 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 (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 330 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Audi A4. (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Audi A4. 2012 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
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 | 1967 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 382 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 218 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.6 seconds | 5.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1905 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4582 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1298 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |
