2005 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2012 Audi S4
To start off, 2012 Audi S4 is newer by 7 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 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 160 more horse power than 2012 Audi S4. (333 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2012 Audi S4.
Because 2012 Audi S4 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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 (800 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 360 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Audi S4. (440 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Audi S4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2012 Audi S4 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
| Model | SL | S4 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5513 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 333 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 800 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 7-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4704 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1427 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2809 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 64 L |
