2010 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren vs. 2003 Audi A3
To start off, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Audi A3 would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren (618 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 480 more horse power than 2003 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren should accelerate faster than 2003 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren weights approximately 485 kg more than 2003 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren 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 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren (780 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 460 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren | 2003 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
| Model | SLR McLaren | A3 |
| Year Released | 2010 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5439 cc | 1967 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 618 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 780 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 332 km/hour | 207 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1825 kg | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 97 L | 55 L |
