2005 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2008 Audi S4
To start off, 2008 Audi S4 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi S4 (339 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL. (302 HP @ 2700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi S4 should accelerate faster than 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 53 kg more than 2008 Audi S4.
Because 2008 Audi S4 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi S4. (410 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi S4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2008 Audi S4 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
| Model | SL | S4 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4966 cc | 4163 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 339 HP |
| Engine RPM | 2700 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 460 Nm | 410 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 84.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.3 seconds | 6.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1848 kg | 1795 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.8 L/100km | 13.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 66 L |
