2008 Audi A4 vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2008 Audi A4 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 293 more horse power than 2008 Audi A4. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 850 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 2003 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 2003 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL (800 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 519 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A4. (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2003 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 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A4 | SL |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 5513 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 800 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 2025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.8 L/100km | 14.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |
