2008 Audi A4 vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2008 Audi A4 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 2,974 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Audi A4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A4 (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 83 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (134 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A4 weights approximately 350 kg more than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 SLK. 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, 2008 Audi A4 (300 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (190 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 2008 Audi A4 has automatic transmission and 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK has manual transmission. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A4 | SLK |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2974 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 78.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 234 km/hour | 231 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1620 kg | 1270 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 75 L |
