1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 2012 Audi A3
To start off, 2012 Audi A3 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (134 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Audi A3 weights approximately 190 kg more than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Audi A3 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (190 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 2012 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
| Model | SLK | A3 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 1460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1763 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1422 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 55 L |
