1998 Mercedes-Benz CL vs. 2012 Audi A5
To start off, 2012 Audi A5 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz CL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz CL would be higher. At 5,786 cc (12 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz CL (367 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 209 more horse power than 2012 Audi A5. (158 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz CL should accelerate faster than 2012 Audi A5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz CL weights approximately 195 kg more than 2012 Audi A5. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz CL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Audi A5, 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz CL (530 Nm @ 5300 RPM) has 280 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Audi A5. (250 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz CL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Audi A5.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz CL | 2012 Audi A5 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
| Model | CL | A5 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5786 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 367 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 530 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5300 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1955 kg | 1760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4623 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1852 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1382 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2970 mm | 2751 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 67 L |
