2006 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2011 Audi A3
To start off, 2011 Audi A3 is newer by 5 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 405 more horse power than 2011 Audi A3. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2011 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 140 kg more than 2011 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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 Mercedes-Benz SL (1,001 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 721 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Audi A3. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Audi A3. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2011 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2011 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2006 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2011 Audi A3 | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
Model | SL | A3 |
Year Released | 2006 | 2011 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5982 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 605 HP | 200 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5100 RPM |
Torque | 1001 Nm | 280 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1600 kg | 1460 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4290 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1763 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1422 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2578 mm |
Fuel Consumption Highway | 12.4 L/100km | 7.8 L/100km |
Fuel Consumption City | 18.1 L/100km | 11.2 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |