2000 Audi A8 vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2000 Audi A8 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2000 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK (134 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 2000 Audi A8. (89 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 2000 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Audi A8 weights approximately 160 kg more than 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK.
Because 1997 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 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2000 Audi A8, 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, 2000 Audi A8 (380 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 190 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK. (190 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2000 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK. 2000 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK has manual transmission. 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2000 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Audi A8 | 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | CLK |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 380 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 10.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1660 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 69 L |
