2009 Audi Q7 vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2009 Audi Q7 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 5,987 cc (12 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (389 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 160 more horse power than 2009 Audi Q7. (229 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi Q7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi Q7 weights approximately 320 kg more than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 2009 Audi Q7 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 Q7 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 (570 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi Q7. (500 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi Q7.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi Q7 | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Q7 | SL |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2967 cc | 5987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 229 HP | 389 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 500 Nm | 570 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.1 seconds | 5.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2370 kg | 2050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1990 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1740 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3010 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 100 L | 80 L |
