2001 Audi A3 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Audi A3 would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 198 more horse power than 2001 Audi A3. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2001 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 585 kg more than 2001 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 210 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Audi A3. (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Audi A3. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2001 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2001 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Audi A3 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | SL |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.7 seconds | 6.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
