1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 2012 Audi A1
To start off, 2012 Audi A1 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 2,295 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK (190 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 2012 Audi A1. (141 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2012 Audi A1. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 285 kg more than 2012 Audi A1. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Audi A1, 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, 2012 Audi A1 (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (280 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2012 Audi A1 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 2012 Audi A1 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
| Model | SLK | A1 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2295 cc | 1968 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1325 kg | 1040 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 3954 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1416 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2469 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 34 L |
