2006 Audi S3 vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2006 Audi S3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 271 more horse power than 2006 Audi S3. (222 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2006 Audi S3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 525 kg more than 2006 Audi S3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Audi S3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Audi S3 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL (700 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 420 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Audi S3. (280 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Audi S3. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2006 Audi S3 has manual transmission. 2006 Audi S3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi S3 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S3 | SL |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 222 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 243 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.6 seconds | 4.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1955 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.2 L/100km | 13.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
