1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2013 Audi A3
To start off, 2013 Audi A3 is newer by 15 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 2,799 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (204 HP) has 7 more horse power than 2013 Audi A3. (197 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2013 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 240 kg more than 2013 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2013 Audi A3 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, 2013 Audi A3 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, 2013 Audi A3 (281 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (270 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2013 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2013 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
| Model | SL | A3 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2799 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | W |
| Horse Power | 204 HP | 197 HP |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.5 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Top Speed | 228 km/hour | 209 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1810 kg | 1570 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4292 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1995 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1423 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2578 mm |
