2009 Audi A3 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren (617 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 366 more horse power than 2009 Audi A3. (251 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren weights approximately 313 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren. 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren (780 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 460 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | SLR McLaren |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3196 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 251 HP | 617 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 780 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.9 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1455 kg | 1768 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.8 L/100km | 14.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 98 L |
