1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2012 Audi Q3
To start off, 2012 Audi Q3 is newer by 14 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 7,291 cc (12 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (518 HP @ 5550 RPM) has 380 more horse power than 2012 Audi Q3. (138 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2012 Audi Q3.
Because 2012 Audi Q3 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Audi Q3 will offer significantly more control. 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 (766 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 446 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Audi Q3. (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Audi Q3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2012 Audi Q3 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
| Model | SL | Q3 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7291 cc | 1964 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 518 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5550 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 766 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4390 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1600 mm |
