2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 2005 Audi A3
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Audi A3 would be higher. At 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK (415 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 314 more horse power than 2005 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2005 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 345 kg more than 2005 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK (539 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 390 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Audi A3. (149 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 2005 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
| Model | SLK | A3 |
| Year Released | 2012 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5500 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 415 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 539 Nm | 149 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.5 seconds | 12.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4102 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1793 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2431 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
