1996 Audi A3 vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 17 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK (298 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 147 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (151 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 400 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 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK (370 Nm @ 5250 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | SLK |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 151 HP | 298 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 86 mm |
| Top Speed | 217 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 4-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4134 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 2006 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1303 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2430 mm |
