1996 Audi A3 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Audi A3 would be higher. At 5,441 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP) has 393 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 821 kg more than 1996 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Audi A3, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (701 Nm) has 565 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (136 Nm). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1996 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 1996 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | SL |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 5441 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 493 HP |
| Torque | 136 Nm | 701 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.5 mm | 92 mm |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1955 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2570 mm |
