2008 Audi A5 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2008 Audi A5 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 3,722 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A5 (262 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL. (247 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A5 should accelerate faster than 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 145 kg more than 2008 Audi A5.
Because 2005 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 2005 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (350 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A5. (330 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A5.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A5 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A5 | SL |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3197 cc | 3722 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 262 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.1 seconds | 7.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1755 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.7 L/100km | 11.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 80 L |
