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 3,936 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 77 more horse power than 2003 Audi A8. (272 HP @ 3750 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 359 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, 2003 Audi A8 (650 Nm) has 200 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (450 Nm). This means 2003 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
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 | 3936 cc | 3199 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 272 HP | 349 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3750 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 650 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.8 seconds | 5.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1820 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 | 7.5 L/100km | 10.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 13.4 L/100km | 13.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.6 L/100km | 12.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 62 L |
