Top Gear December 2005 has a sizzling battle between two of the hottest cars in the Indian automobile industry – the well-rounded, classy Audi TT and the elegantly brash convertible, the Mercedes SLK. Who passes the test? That’s a really tricky question, since both these cars are in fact, near-perfect. So the difficult choice is cunningly left to you; read and on decide for yourselves who wins this test.

Styling :
As far as the styling is concerned, both cars are extreme opposites, but breathtaking in their own way. The TT is a well rounded, well shaped automobile and is full of subtle charm. It reeks of symmetry from all angles. There is no sign of imbalance from any part of the design. Quite perfect, that. However, the SLK doesn’t sport a breakthrough or radical design, but is beautiful anyway. Its overwhelming presence can sometimes steal the limelight off the Audi.

Engine and Performance:
The SLK admittedly is the more obvious choice for the driver. Firstly, the Mercedes’ torque is a whopping 163 bhp over the Audi TT’s 150 bhp. At times the Audi feels better between the two as far as the pick up is concerned. This may be attributed to the former’s lighter chassis and manual transmission. The SLK is a bit slower than the TT in this respect, but once it breaks even there’s no looking back. Lighter the TT’s chassis maybe, but it does not beat the SLK’s chassis in its sturdiness and steadfastness. Also, the engine is a bit unfriendly in the beginning, and needs some serious revving up to open up. But once this baby is on fire, she sets the road ablaze.

Interiors:
Both the Audi and Mercedes are wonderful in their own way. The TT has a hugely enjoyable and impeccable cabin. There are hidden window switches and aluminum inserts, fine touches the SLK lacks. The Merc is nice as well, except for the use of slightly tacky plastic aluminum in places where it is most uncalled for. Aesthetically the cabin is a little too ordinary, especially since you cough up so much money expecting every tiny detail in place. But it comes with electric seats by default, and the TT is defeated here.

Ride quality:
Though stiff, the ride in the Audi TT is admittedly better than the one in the SLK. At low speeds too the TT keeps its cool and gives a great riding experience. However, the SLK’s tougher chassis gives an awesome ride at high speeds, while the TT becomes a little light. The drive on both cars however is awesome, and certainly memorable.

With the two coupés battling it out, its difficult to really decide which is the best bargain. Since er…one car’s food is the other car’s poison, it would be best if you really checked out the pros and the cons for yourself. Good luck!