1999 Audi A4 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS

To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 9 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 4,965 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 179 more horse power than 1999 Audi A4. (123 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 1999 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 420 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 1999 Audi A4 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Audi A4 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 292 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Audi A4. (168 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Audi A4. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS has automatic transmission and 1999 Audi A4 has manual transmission. 1999 Audi A4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1999 Audi A4 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS
Make Audi Mercedes-Benz
Model A4 CLS
Year Released 1999 2008
Body Type Station Wagon Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1781 cc 4965 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 123 HP 302 HP
Engine RPM 5800 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 168 Nm 460 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 2700 RPM
Engine Bore Size 81 mm 97 mm
Engine Stroke Size 86.4 mm 84 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.3:1 10.0:1
Top Speed 197 km/hour 250 km/hour
Acceleration 0-100mph 11.3 seconds 6.1 seconds
Drive Type 4WD Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1390 kg 1810 kg
Vehicle Length 4480 mm 4920 mm
Vehicle Width 1740 mm 1860 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1400 mm
Wheelbase Size 2610 mm 2860 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 60 L 80 L