1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2007 Audi A3
To start off, 2007 Audi A3 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 3,197 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (224 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 123 more horse power than 2007 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2007 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 550 kg more than 2007 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (315 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 166 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Audi A3. (149 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2007 Audi A3 | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
Model | SL | A3 |
Year Released | 1998 | 2007 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3197 cc | 1595 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 224 HP | 101 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 315 Nm | 149 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 77.4 mm |
Top Speed | 238 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.4 seconds | 11.9 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 1280 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4210 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2580 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |