2006 Audi S3 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Audi S3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Audi S3 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi S3 (222 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (182 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi S3 should accelerate faster than 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 5 kg more than 2006 Audi S3.
Because 2006 Audi S3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 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, 2006 Audi S3 (280 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (250 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2006 Audi S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi S3 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S3 | SLK |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 222 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Top Speed | 243 km/hour | 240 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.6 seconds | 7 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1435 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2431 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
