2006 Audi RS4 vs. 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2006 Audi RS4 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 4,163 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Audi RS4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi RS4 (415 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 187 more horse power than 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL. (228 HP @ 6400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi RS4 should accelerate faster than 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi RS4 weights approximately 155 kg more than 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Audi RS4 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Audi RS4 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, 2006 Audi RS4 (430 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 163 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL. (267 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2006 Audi RS4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi RS4 | 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | RS4 | SL |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4163 cc | 2962 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 415 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7800 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 430 Nm | 267 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1845 kg | 1690 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 80 L |
