1999 Audi A4 vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz CL
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz CL is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Audi A4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Audi A4 would be higher. At 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz CL (603 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 355 more horse power than 1999 Audi A4. (248 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz CL should accelerate faster than 1999 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz CL weights approximately 855 kg more than 1999 Audi A4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz CL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Audi A4, 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz CL (1,000 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 680 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Audi A4. (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz CL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Audi A4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Audi A4 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz CL | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A4 | CL |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 5980 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 248 HP | 603 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 1000 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 214 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 2155 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 88 L |
