2009 Audi A3 vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 164 more horse power than 2009 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 345 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 2009 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (461 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 141 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Audi A3 | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | A3 | SL |
Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1966 cc | 4966 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 302 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 320 Nm | 461 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2700 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 97 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 84 mm |
Top Speed | 205 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.6 seconds | 6.5 seconds |
Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1545 kg | 1890 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4510 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.9 L/100km | 12.7 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 80 L |