2008 Audi A4 vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2008 Audi A4 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 4,971 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL (315 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 2008 Audi A4. (252 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 215 kg more than 2008 Audi A4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 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 1997 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL (468 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 138 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A4. (330 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A4. 2008 Audi A4 has automatic transmission and 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL has manual transmission. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Audi A4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Audi A4 | 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | A4 | SL |
Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3123 cc | 4971 cc |
Horse Power | 252 HP | 315 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 330 Nm | 468 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3900 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84.5 mm | 96.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 85 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 12.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
Top Speed | 245 km/hour | 249 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1554 kg | 1769 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4480 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1310 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |