2002 Audi A3 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Audi A3 would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK (161 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 2002 Audi A3. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2002 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Audi A3 weights approximately 10 kg more than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Because 2004 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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 SLK (241 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Audi A3. (201 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
2002 Audi A3 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | A3 | SLK |
Year Released | 2002 | 2004 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1796 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 161 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 201 Nm | 241 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 82 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 85 mm |
Top Speed | 211 km/hour | 226 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 1265 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2440 mm |