2003 Audi A3 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Audi A3 would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 2700 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 2003 Audi A3. (246 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2003 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Audi A3 weights approximately 32 kg more than 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 2003 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Audi A3 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Audi A3. (310 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Audi A3 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | SL |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3188 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 246 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.9 mm | 84 mm |
| Top Speed | 245 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.7 seconds | 6.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1880 kg | 1848 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
