2003 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2001 Audi A3
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Audi A3 would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 389 more horse power than 2001 Audi A3. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2001 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 660 kg more than 2001 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Audi A3, 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 Mercedes-Benz SL (700 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 450 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Audi A3. (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2001 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
| Model | SL | A3 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5439 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 700 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.7 seconds | 11.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1955 kg | 1295 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.5 L/100km | 5.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |
