2007 Audi A3 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2007 Audi A3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK (161 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2007 Audi A3. (139 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2007 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Audi A3 weights approximately 82 kg more than 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Because 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2007 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (230 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2007 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Audi A3 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | SLK |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 78.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 207 km/hour | 230 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.7 seconds | 7.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1368 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.6 L/100km | 8.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
