2008 Audi A3 vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK (134 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (113 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A3 weights approximately 70 kg more than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Because 1996 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK (190 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A3. (155 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Audi A3 | 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | A3 | SLK |
Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1998 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 113 HP | 134 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 155 Nm | 190 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 76.6 mm | 89.9 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 86.9 mm | 78.7 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 1270 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4000 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1280 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2410 mm |