1998 Audi A3 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 7 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 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK (221 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 121 more horse power than 1998 Audi A3. (100 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 1998 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 590 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 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, 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK (510 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 366 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Audi A3. (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Audi A3. 2005 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. 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Audi A3 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | CLK |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 221 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 510 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 17.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 195 km/hour | 246 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1730 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.6 L/100km | 8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 62 L |
