2008 Audi S4 vs. 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2008 Audi S4 is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 4,163 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Audi S4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi S4 (340 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 172 more horse power than 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL. (168 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi S4 should accelerate faster than 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 200 kg more than 2008 Audi S4.
Because 2008 Audi S4 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Audi S4 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 S4 (410 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 170 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Audi S4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi S4 | 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S4 | SL |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1970 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4163 cc | 2778 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 340 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2410 mm |
