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 3,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 2007 Audi A3. (251 HP @ 6300 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. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 330 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Audi A3.
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 | 3195 cc | 3491 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 251 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 92.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.9 mm | 86 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1455 kg | 1785 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 8.7 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.2 L/100km | 13.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.2 L/100km | 11.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
