2008 Audi A3 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK (355 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 207 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A3 weights approximately 150 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Because 2009 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 2009 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK (510 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 309 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A3. (201 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A3. 2009 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. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Audi A3 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | A3 | SLK |
Year Released | 2008 | 2009 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1984 cc | 5439 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 355 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
Torque | 201 Nm | 510 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 97 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 92 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1240 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4110 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1800 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1290 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2440 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 7 L/100km | 13.8 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |