2001 Audi A8 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Audi A8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Audi A8 would be higher. At 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK (349 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 119 more horse power than 2001 Audi A8. (230 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2001 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Audi A8 weights approximately 289 kg more than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Because 2001 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Audi A8 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, both vehicles can yield 450 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Audi A8 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | SLK |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2967 cc | 3199 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 230 HP | 349 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.8 seconds | 5.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1750 kg | 1461 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.6 L/100km | 12.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 62 L |
