2005 Audi RS4 vs. 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2005 Audi RS4 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, 2005 Audi RS4 (376 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 148 more horse power than 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL. (228 HP @ 6400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Audi RS4 should accelerate faster than 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 105 kg more than 2005 Audi RS4.
Because 2005 Audi RS4 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Audi RS4 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, 2005 Audi RS4 (449 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 182 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL. (267 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2005 Audi RS4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi RS4 | 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | RS4 | SL |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2671 cc | 2962 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 376 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 449 Nm | 267 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1585 kg | 1690 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
