2000 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2010 Audi S3
To start off, 2010 Audi S3 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2000 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2000 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 2000 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Audi S3 (252 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 2000 Mercedes-Benz SL. (217 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Audi S3 should accelerate faster than 2000 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 300 kg more than 2010 Audi S3.
Because 2010 Audi S3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2000 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 Audi S3 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, 2010 Audi S3 (331 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Mercedes-Benz SL. (316 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2010 Audi S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2010 Audi S3 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
| Model | SL | S3 |
| Year Released | 2000 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3199 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 252 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 316 Nm | 331 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1755 kg | 1455 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1410 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1770 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 60 L |
