2006 Audi A3 vs. 1992 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2006 Audi A3 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,962 cc (6 cylinders), 1992 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 Mercedes-Benz SL (231 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 2006 Audi A3. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1992 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2006 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A3 weights approximately 190 kg more than 1992 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 1992 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 1992 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Audi A3 (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 Mercedes-Benz SL. (268 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2006 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A3 | 1992 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | SL |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1992 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1981 cc | 2962 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 231 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 268 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 88.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1880 kg | 1690 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
