1996 Audi A3 vs. 2010 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2010 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 14 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 6,200 cc (8 cylinders), 2010 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mercedes-Benz CLS (507 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 356 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (151 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 770 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 2010 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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 CLS. 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, 2010 Mercedes-Benz CLS (630 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 420 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2010 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3. 2010 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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. 2010 Mercedes-Benz CLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 2010 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | CLS |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 6200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 151 HP | 507 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 630 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1910 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4917 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1872 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1389 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2855 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 80 L |
