2004 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2011 Audi A3
To start off, 2011 Audi A3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 162 more horse power than 2011 Audi A3. (140 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2011 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 343 kg more than 2011 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (460 Nm) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Audi A3. (320 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2011 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
| Model | SL | A3 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4966 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 460 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1848 kg | 1505 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1763 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1422 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 10.2 L/100km | 5.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 14.7 L/100km | 7.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |
