2009 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2012 Audi A3
To start off, 2012 Audi A3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,512 cc (12 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (510 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 310 more horse power than 2012 Audi A3. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2012 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 490 kg more than 2012 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (830 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 550 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Audi A3. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2012 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
| Model | SL | A3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5512 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 510 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 830 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1950 kg | 1460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1763 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1422 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 13.1 L/100km | 7.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 21.4 L/100km | 11.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |
