2008 Audi A3 vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 5 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 6,000 cc (12 cylinders), 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 645 kg more than 2008 Audi A3.
Because 2013 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 2013 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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL (999 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 799 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A3. (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A3. 2008 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL has manual transmission. 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | SL |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 6000 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 613 HP |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 999 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 209 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.5 seconds | 4.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 4-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1305 kg | 1950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4633 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 2099 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2585 mm |
