2007 Audi A4 vs. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2007 Audi A4 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 2007 Audi A4. (201 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2007 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Audi A4 weights approximately 35 kg more than 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 2001 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 2001 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, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 179 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Audi A4. (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Audi A4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Audi A4 | 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A4 | SL |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1880 kg | 1845 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2570 mm |
