2007 Audi A3 vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2007 Audi A3 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 4,971 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL (315 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 177 more horse power than 2007 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2007 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 224 kg more than 2007 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL (468 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 148 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Audi A3. 2007 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL has manual transmission. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2007 Audi A3 | 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | A3 | SL |
Year Released | 2007 | 1997 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1967 cc | 4971 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 315 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 320 Nm | 468 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3900 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 96.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 85 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
Top Speed | 205 km/hour | 249 km/hour |
Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1545 kg | 1769 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4480 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1310 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 80 L |