2007 Audi A3 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 Audi A3 would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 2007 Audi A3. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2007 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 120 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 2008 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 2008 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Audi A3. (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 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 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | SLK |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 92.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 209 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.7 seconds | 5.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1465 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.8 L/100km | 10.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
