2009 Audi A8 vs. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2009 Audi A8 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK (349 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 2009 Audi A8. (229 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A8 weights approximately 335 kg more than 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Because 2009 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Audi A8 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, both vehicles can yield 450 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A8 | 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | SLK |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2966 cc | 3199 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 229 HP | 349 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91.4 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 243 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.8 seconds | 5.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 1495 kg |
| Vehicle Height | 1900 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.4 L/100km | 11.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 60 L |
