1996 Audi A3 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL is newer by 12 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 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL (493 HP) has 393 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL weights approximately 861 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL. 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL (700 Nm) has 564 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (136 Nm). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL has automatic transmission and 1996 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 1996 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | CL |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 493 HP |
| Torque | 136 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.5 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1995 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2890 mm |
