2005 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2005 Audi A3
To start off, both 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL and 2005 Audi A3 were released in the same year (2005). Therefore the support and the availability on parts for both vehicles should be relatively similar. At 5,506 cc (12 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 246 more horse power than 2005 Audi A3. (247 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2005 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 484 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 2005 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (800 Nm) has 470 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Audi A3. (330 Nm). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2005 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
| Model | SL | A3 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5506 cc | 3196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 800 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87 mm | 95.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2009 kg | 1525 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 15.7 L/100km | 10.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |
