2007 Audi A3 vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2007 Audi A3 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 3,187 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Audi A3 (247 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (204 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 245 kg more than 2007 Audi A3.
Because 2007 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 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, 2007 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 8200 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (270 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2007 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2007 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2007 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2007 Audi A3 | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | A3 | SL |
Year Released | 2007 | 1998 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3187 cc | 2799 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Horse Power | 247 HP | 204 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 320 Nm | 270 Nm |
Torque RPM | 8200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 89.9 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 95.9 mm | 73.5 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 10.1:1 |
Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 228 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.3 seconds | 9.8 seconds |
Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1565 kg | 1810 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4510 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 80 L |