2009 Audi A4 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2009 Audi A4 is newer by 4 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 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (604 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 343 more horse power than 2009 Audi A4. (261 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 430 kg more than 2009 Audi A4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2009 Audi A4, 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 (1,001 Nm) has 671 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A4. (330 Nm). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A4 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A4 | SL |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3197 cc | 5980 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 261 HP | 604 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 1001 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.6 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 2060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.1 L/100km | 15.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 80 L |
