2004 Audi A3 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Audi A3 would be higher. At 3,189 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi A3 (252 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (228 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Because 2004 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Audi A3 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 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 2004 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK has manual transmission. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A3 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | SLK |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3189 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 252 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4110 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 7.6 L/100km | 9.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 13.9 L/100km | 13.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.9 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 70 L |
