2006 Audi A3 vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLS

To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLS is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Audi A3 would be higher. At 6,300 cc (8 cylinders), 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLS (575 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 470 more horse power than 2006 Audi A3. (105 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLS should accelerate faster than 2006 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLS weights approximately 369 kg more than 2006 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLS 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 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLS. 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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLS (649 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 399 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Audi A3. (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Audi A3.

Compare all specifications:

2006 Audi A3 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLS
Make Audi Mercedes-Benz
Model A3 SLS
Year Released 2006 2013
Body Type Hatchback Roadster
Engine Position Front Middle
Engine Size 1896 cc 6300 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 105 HP 575 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 6800 RPM
Torque 250 Nm 649 Nm
Torque RPM 1900 RPM 4750 RPM
Engine Bore Size 79.5 mm 102 mm
Engine Stroke Size 95.5 mm 94 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 19.0:1 11.3:1
Fuel Type Diesel Gasoline - Premium
Top Speed 187 km/hour 330 km/hour
Acceleration 0-100mph 11.4 seconds 4 seconds
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual 4-speed manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 2 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1295 kg 1664 kg
Vehicle Length 4210 mm 4638 mm
Vehicle Width 1770 mm 2075 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1261 mm
Wheelbase Size 2580 mm 2680 mm