1998 Audi A3 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 10 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 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 225 kg more than 1998 Audi A3.
Because 2008 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK (230 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Audi A3. (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Audi A3. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Audi A3 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | SLK |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 78.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 195 km/hour | 223 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 | 1365 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.6 L/100km | 9.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 60 L |
