2008 Audi A6 vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2008 Audi A6 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,956 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL (375 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 127 more horse power than 2008 Audi A6. (248 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 330 kg more than 2008 Audi A6. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Audi A6 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Audi A6 will offer significantly more control. 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL (580 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 230 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A6. (350 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A6. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2008 Audi A6 has manual transmission. 2008 Audi A6 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A6 | 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A6 | SL |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2671 cc | 5956 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 248 HP | 375 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 580 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 100 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 94.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 246 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7 seconds | 5.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1720 kg | 2050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.8 L/100km | 10.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |
