2008 Audi A4 vs. 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2008 Audi A4 is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,778 cc (6 cylinders), 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL (168 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 2008 Audi A4. (161 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A4 weights approximately 180 kg more than 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 1970 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 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A4. (225 Nm @ 1950 RPM). This means 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A4 | 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A4 | SL |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1970 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 2778 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1950 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 1360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2410 mm |
