2006 Audi A6 vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2006 Audi A6 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 4,971 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL (315 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 2006 Audi A6. (256 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2006 Audi A6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 229 kg more than 2006 Audi A6. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Audi A6, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL (468 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 138 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Audi A6. (330 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Audi A6. 2006 Audi A6 has automatic transmission and 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL has manual transmission. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Audi A6 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A6 | 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A6 | SL |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3130 cc | 4971 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 256 HP | 315 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 468 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.6 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.7 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 209 km/hour | 249 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 1769 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |
