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 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Audi S4 (340 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (302 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Audi S4 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 35 kg more than 2005 Audi S4.
Because 2005 Audi S4 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Audi S4 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (461 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Audi S4. (410 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Audi S4. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2005 Audi S4 has manual transmission. 2005 Audi S4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
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 | 4163 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 340 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 461 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 84 mm |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.9 seconds | 6.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1855 kg | 1890 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 11.4 L/100km | 9.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 15.8 L/100km | 17.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 14 L/100km | 12.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 80 L |
