2008 Audi A3 vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (198 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A3 weights approximately 70 kg more than 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2013 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 2013 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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK (310 Nm @ 4350 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A3. (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | SLK |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 198 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4350 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.1 seconds | 6.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 4-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1545 kg | 1475 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4134 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 2006 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1303 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2430 mm |
