2008 Audi A3 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 4 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 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (604 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 407 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 625 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (998 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 717 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A3. (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Audi A3 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | A3 | SL |
Year Released | 2008 | 2004 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1984 cc | 5980 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
Horse Power | 197 HP | 604 HP |
Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 281 Nm | 998 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Top Speed | 236 km/hour | 245 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 7 seconds | 3.9 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 | 1485 kg | 2110 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4540 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 2040 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.7 L/100km | 15.2 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |