2006 Audi S4 vs. 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2006 Audi S4 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 4,163 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Audi S4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi S4 (340 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. (228 HP @ 6400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi S4 should accelerate faster than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi S4 weights approximately 190 kg more than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 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 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Audi S4, 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, 2006 Audi S4 (410 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 143 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. (267 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2006 Audi S4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi S4 | 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S4 | SL |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4163 cc | 2962 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 340 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 267 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.5 mm | 88.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1880 kg | 1690 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 80 L |
