2009 Audi RS4 vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2009 Audi RS4 is newer by 12 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), 2009 Audi RS4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi RS4 (414 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 224 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. (190 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi RS4 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi RS4 weights approximately 85 kg more than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Audi RS4 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Audi RS4 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, 2009 Audi RS4 (430 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2009 Audi RS4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi RS4 | 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | RS4 | SL |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | 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 | 430 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.5 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 73.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1845 kg | 1760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 80 L |
