2005 Audi A3 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Audi A3 would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (510 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 313 more horse power than 2005 Audi A3. (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2005 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 585 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 2008 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (720 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 440 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Audi A3. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
2005 Audi A3 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | A3 | SL |
Year Released | 2005 | 2008 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1984 cc | 5439 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
Horse Power | 197 HP | 510 HP |
Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6100 RPM |
Torque | 280 Nm | 720 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2600 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Top Speed | 231 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.9 seconds | 4.7 seconds |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1370 kg | 1955 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4540 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.7 L/100km | 14.6 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |