2009 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2012 Audi R8
To start off, 2012 Audi R8 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (510 HP) has 90 more horse power than 2012 Audi R8. (420 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2012 Audi R8.
Because 2012 Audi R8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Audi R8 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 Mercedes-Benz SL (830 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 400 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Audi R8. (430 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Audi R8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2012 Audi R8 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
| Model | SL | R8 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 5513 cc | 4200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 510 HP | 420 HP |
| Torque | 830 Nm | 430 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4435 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1905 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1245 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2649 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 13.1 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 90 L |
