2008 Audi A3 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren would be higher. At 5,506 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren (618 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 517 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren weights approximately 465 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren. 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren (780 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 632 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A3. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A3. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren 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. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | SLR McLaren |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 5506 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 618 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 780 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81.1 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.2 seconds | 3.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1265 kg | 1730 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2850 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.1 L/100km | 15.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 98 L |
