1999 Audi A3 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Audi A3 would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK (355 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 254 more horse power than 1999 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1999 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 550 kg more than 1999 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK (511 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 367 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Audi A3. (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Audi A3. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 1999 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 1999 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Audi A3 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | SLK |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 355 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 511 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 92 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 200 km/hour | 250 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 | 1690 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.6 L/100km | 13 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 70 L |
