2009 Audi RS6 vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2009 Audi RS6 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,956 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi RS6 (572 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 197 more horse power than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL. (375 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi RS6 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 22 kg more than 2009 Audi RS6.
Because 2009 Audi RS6 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Audi RS6 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 RS6 (650 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL. (580 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2009 Audi RS6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi RS6 | 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | RS6 | SL |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4991 cc | 5956 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 572 HP | 375 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 650 Nm | 580 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.5 mm | 100 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89 mm | 94.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 280 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.6 seconds | 5.8 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 | 2028 kg | 2050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4930 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 14 L/100km | 10.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 80 L |
