1997 Audi A8 vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Audi A8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Audi A8 would be higher. At 2,496 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK (161 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1997 Audi A8. (150 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1997 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Audi A8 weights approximately 335 kg more than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Because 2003 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Audi A8, 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, 1997 Audi A8 (310 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (234 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1997 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Audi A8 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | SLK |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2496 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 234 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.3 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 78.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1625 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 70 L |
