1996 Audi A3 vs. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 14 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 6,208 cc (8 cylinders), 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL (518 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 395 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (123 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 100 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 2010 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 2010 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, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL (630 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 457 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (173 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3. 2010 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. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Audi A3 | 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | A3 | SL |
Year Released | 1996 | 2010 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1781 cc | 6208 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 123 HP | 518 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6800 RPM |
Torque | 173 Nm | 630 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 102.3 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 94.6 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1240 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4540 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1480 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1600 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.4 L/100km | 16.8 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 80 L |