2003 Audi A4 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Audi A4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Audi A4 would be higher. At 1,794 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK (161 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 2003 Audi A4. (113 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2003 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 490 kg more than 2003 Audi A4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Audi A4, 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK (240 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Audi A4. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Audi A4. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 2003 Audi A4 has manual transmission. 2003 Audi A4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Audi A4 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A4 | SLK |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1794 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81.1 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 85 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1785 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 65 L |
