2008 Audi A3 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK (268 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 164 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 375 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 2006 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 2006 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK (510 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 260 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A3. (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A3. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | SLK |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 510 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.5 mm | 97.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.7 seconds | 4.9 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 | 1410 kg | 1785 kg |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.1 L/100km | 12 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
