1998 Audi A3 vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK

To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Audi A3 would be higher. At 2,683 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK (170 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1998 Audi A3. (100 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 1998 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 445 kg more than 1998 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2002 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Audi A3. (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Audi A3. 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK has automatic transmission and 1998 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 1998 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1998 Audi A3 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK
Make Audi Mercedes-Benz
Model A3 CLK
Year Released 1998 2002
Body Type Hatchback Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1595 cc 2683 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 100 HP 170 HP
Engine RPM 5600 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 144 Nm 240 Nm
Torque RPM 3800 RPM 4500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 81 mm 89.9 mm
Engine Stroke Size 77.4 mm 68.2 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.3:1 10.5:1
Top Speed 195 km/hour 234 km/hour
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1140 kg 1585 kg
Vehicle Length 4160 mm 4640 mm
Vehicle Width 1740 mm 1750 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 2770 mm 2720 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 54 L 70 L


 

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