2008 Audi A3 vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,987 cc (12 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (389 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 142 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (247 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 495 kg more than 2008 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (570 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 250 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A3. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2008 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2008 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Audi A3 | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | A3 | SL |
Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3189 cc | 5987 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 247 HP | 389 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 320 Nm | 570 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 89.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 95.9 mm | 80.2 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.8 seconds | 5.1 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 | 1555 kg | 2050 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4510 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2410 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |