2008 Audi A6 vs. 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2008 Audi A6 is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,778 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A6 (250 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. (168 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A6 should accelerate faster than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A6 weights approximately 120 kg more than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 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 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Audi A6, 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, 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A6. (230 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A6.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A6 | 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A6 | SL |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1971 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2393 cc | 2778 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 250 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 1360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4180 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2410 mm |
