2005 Audi S4 vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2005 Audi S4 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (349 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 2005 Audi S4. (340 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2005 Audi S4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Audi S4 weights approximately 20 kg more than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Let's talk about torque, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (530 Nm) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Audi S4. (410 Nm). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Audi S4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi S4 | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S4 | SL |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4161 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 340 HP | 349 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1840 kg | 1820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 10.2 L/100km | 9.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 13.8 L/100km | 18.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.8 L/100km | 12.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 80 L |
