2008 Audi A5 vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2008 Audi A5 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. Both 2008 Audi A5 and 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL are equipped with a 3,197 cc engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A5 (262 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (224 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A5 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 220 kg more than 2008 Audi A5.
Because 1998 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Audi A5, 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 A5 (330 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (315 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A5 | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A5 | SL |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3197 cc | 3197 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 262 HP | 224 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.1:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 238 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.1 seconds | 8.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 80 L |
