2008 Audi R8 vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2008 Audi R8 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 4,163 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Audi R8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi R8 (414 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 224 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. (190 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi R8 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 200 kg more than 2008 Audi R8.
Because 2008 Audi R8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Audi R8 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, 2008 Audi R8 (431 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 161 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2008 Audi R8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2008 Audi R8 has manual transmission. 2008 Audi R8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi R8 | 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | R8 | SL |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 4163 cc | 2799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 431 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.5 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 73.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | AWD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 80 L |
