2002 Audi S3 vs. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Audi S3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Audi S3 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL (228 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 2002 Audi S3. (222 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2002 Audi S3.
Because 2002 Audi S3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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 Mercedes-Benz SL (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Audi S3. (280 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Audi S3. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2002 Audi S3 has manual transmission. 2002 Audi S3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Audi S3 | 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S3 | SL |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1779 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 222 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Top Speed | 243 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.6 seconds | 7.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4582 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1298 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 80 L |
