2004 Audi A3 vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2004 Audi A3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 392 more horse power than 2004 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 730 kg more than 2004 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, 2004 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 (800 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 652 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A3. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Audi A3 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | A3 | SL |
Year Released | 2004 | 2003 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1595 cc | 5513 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 101 HP | 493 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 148 Nm | 800 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.0:1 |
Top Speed | 178 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 13.2 seconds | 4.7 seconds |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 2025 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4540 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.6 L/100km | 14.7 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |