2005 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2009 Audi A3
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 246 more horse power than 2009 Audi A3. (247 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 430 kg more than 2009 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 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, 2009 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 @ 1800 RPM) has 480 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2009 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
| Model | SL | A3 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5513 cc | 3187 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 | 4800 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 800 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87 mm | 95.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.7 seconds | 6.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2040 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 14.7 L/100km | 11.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 60 L |
