2004 Audi A3 vs. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren
To start off, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren is newer by 6 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 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren (641 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 540 more horse power than 2004 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A3.
Because 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren 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 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren. 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, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren (821 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 673 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A3. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A3 | 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | SLR McLaren |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 641 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 821 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 92 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 335 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 80 L |
