2006 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2008 Audi A3
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,982 cc (12 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL (605 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 358 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (247 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A3 weights approximately 10 kg more than 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 2008 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL (1,001 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 681 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2008 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
| Model | SL | A3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5982 cc | 3189 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 605 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 1001 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 95.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.2 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 | 1600 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 15.7 L/100km | 10.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 60 L |
