2003 Audi A8 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Audi A8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Audi A8 would be higher. At 4,172 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK (349 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 2003 Audi A8. (330 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2003 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Audi A8 weights approximately 479 kg more than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Because 2003 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Audi A8 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK (450 Nm) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Audi A8. (430 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Audi A8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Audi A8 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | SLK |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4172 cc | 3199 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 330 HP | 349 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 430 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.7 seconds | 5.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1940 kg | 1461 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5190 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 8.7 L/100km | 10.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 17.5 L/100km | 13.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.9 L/100km | 12.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 62 L |
