2009 Audi A6 vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL

To start off, 2009 Audi A6 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 7,291 cc (12 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (518 HP @ 5550 RPM) has 189 more horse power than 2009 Audi A6. (329 HP @ 6600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 305 kg more than 2009 Audi A6. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2009 Audi A6 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (766 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 345 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A6. (421 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A6.

Compare all specifications:

2009 Audi A6 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL
Make Audi Mercedes-Benz
Model A6 SL
Year Released 2009 1998
Body Type Sedan Convertible
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4163 cc 7291 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 12 cylinders
Engine Type V V
Valves per Cylinder 5 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 329 HP 518 HP
Engine RPM 6600 RPM 5550 RPM
Torque 421 Nm 766 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 4000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 84.5 mm 91.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 92.8 mm 92.4 mm
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type 4WD Rear
Transmission Type Automatic Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 2 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1745 kg 2050 kg
Vehicle Length 4920 mm 4470 mm
Vehicle Width 1860 mm 1820 mm
Vehicle Height 1470 mm 1300 mm
Wheelbase Size 2850 mm 2520 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 80 L 70 L