2008 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2009 Audi A3
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (511 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 410 more horse power than 2009 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 680 kg more than 2009 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (720 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 572 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A3. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2009 Audi A3 | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
Model | SL | A3 |
Year Released | 2008 | 2009 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5439 cc | 1595 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 511 HP | 101 HP |
Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 720 Nm | 148 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.5 seconds | 11.9 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1960 kg | 1280 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4220 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2580 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.5 L/100km | 7.1 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |