1996 Audi A3 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Audi A3 would be higher. At 2,683 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK (167 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (151 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 560 kg more than 1996 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | CLK |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 2683 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 151 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 68.2 mm |
| Top Speed | 217 km/hour | 232 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1700 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 62 L |
