2003 Audi A6 vs. 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK

To start off, 2003 Audi A6 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 2,698 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Audi A6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Audi A6 (178 HP @ 3300 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (161 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Audi A6 should accelerate faster than 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Audi A6 weights approximately 405 kg more than 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1999 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 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Audi A6, 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, 2003 Audi A6 (370 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 136 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (234 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2003 Audi A6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK.

Compare all specifications:

2003 Audi A6 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK
Make Audi Mercedes-Benz
Model A6 SLK
Year Released 2003 1999
Body Type Station Wagon Convertible
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2698 cc 1998 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 178 HP 161 HP
Engine RPM 3300 RPM 5300 RPM
Torque 370 Nm 234 Nm
Torque RPM 1400 RPM 2500 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 17.0:1 9.5:1
Fuel Type Diesel Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 2 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1695 kg 1290 kg
Vehicle Length 4940 mm 4000 mm
Vehicle Width 1860 mm 1720 mm
Vehicle Height 1470 mm 1280 mm
Wheelbase Size 2850 mm 2410 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 70 L