2009 Audi A8 vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2009 Audi A8 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 3,936 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A8 (272 HP @ 3750 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (161 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A8 weights approximately 650 kg more than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 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, 2009 Audi A8 (650 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 416 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (234 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 2009 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK has manual transmission. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A8 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | SLK |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3936 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 272 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3750 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 650 Nm | 234 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 78.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1940 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5190 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 70 L |
