1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR vs. 2002 Audi A3
To start off, 2002 Audi A3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR would be higher. At 6,898 cc (12 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR (604 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 500 more horse power than 2002 Audi A3. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR should accelerate faster than 2002 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Audi A3 weights approximately 30 kg more than 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR.
Because 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR 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 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR (770 Nm @ 5250 RPM) has 520 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Audi A3. (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Audi A3. 2002 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR has manual transmission. 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR | 2002 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
| Model | CLK GTR | A3 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 6898 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 604 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 770 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5250 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1265 kg | 1295 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2580 mm |
