1998 Audi A3 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Audi A3 would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 202 more horse power than 1998 Audi A3. (100 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1998 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 740 kg more than 1998 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 316 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Audi A3. (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Audi A3. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1998 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 1998 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Audi A3 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | A3 | SL |
Year Released | 1998 | 2004 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1595 cc | 4966 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
Horse Power | 100 HP | 302 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 144 Nm | 460 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2700 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 97 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Top Speed | 195 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1880 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4540 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 80 L |