2007 Audi S3 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2007 Audi S3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 231 more horse power than 2007 Audi S3. (262 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2007 Audi S3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 525 kg more than 2007 Audi S3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 Audi S3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Audi S3 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (700 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 350 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Audi S3. (350 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Audi S3. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2007 Audi S3 has manual transmission. 2007 Audi S3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Audi S3 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S3 | SL |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 262 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.7 seconds | 4.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1455 kg | 1980 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.1 L/100km | 13.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 80 L |
