2008 Audi A3 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Audi A3 would be higher. At 6,208 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (518 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 268 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (250 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A3 weights approximately 215 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 2008 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (630 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 310 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2009 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 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | SL |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3196 cc | 6208 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 250 HP | 518 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 630 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 102.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.9 mm | 94.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1455 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1480 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption City | 13.1 L/100km | 19.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.2 L/100km | 16.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
