2006 Audi S4 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Audi S4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Audi S4 would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (511 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 171 more horse power than 2006 Audi S4. (340 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2006 Audi S4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 450 kg more than 2006 Audi S4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (720 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 310 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Audi S4. (410 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Audi S4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi S4 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S4 | SL |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4163 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 340 HP | 511 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 720 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.9 seconds | 4.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 11.2 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 15.7 L/100km | 16.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.8 L/100km | 13.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 80 L |
