2007 Audi A4 vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2007 Audi A4 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,798 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (204 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 2007 Audi A4. (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2007 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 180 kg more than 2007 Audi A4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Audi A4, 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, 2007 Audi A4 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (270 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2007 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. 2007 Audi A4 has automatic transmission and 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has manual transmission. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Audi A4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Audi A4 | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A4 | SL |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 2798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 204 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 73.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.1:1 |
| Top Speed | 238 km/hour | 232 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.2 seconds | 9.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1400 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |
