2005 Audi A3 vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2005 Audi A3 is newer by 2 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 246 more horse power than 2005 Audi A3. (247 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2005 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 500 kg more than 2005 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL (800 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 470 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Audi A3. (330 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Audi A3. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2005 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2005 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2005 Audi A3 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | A3 | SL |
Year Released | 2005 | 2003 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3196 cc | 5513 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
Horse Power | 247 HP | 493 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 330 Nm | 800 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 9.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.6 seconds | 4.7 seconds |
Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 2025 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4540 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.8 L/100km | 14.7 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |