2001 Audi A3 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Audi A3 would be higher. At 5,437 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK (574 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 470 more horse power than 2001 Audi A3. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 2001 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 453 kg more than 2001 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK (800 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 550 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Audi A3. (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Audi A3. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK has automatic transmission and 2001 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2001 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Audi A3 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | CLK |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 5437 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 574 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 800 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.7 seconds | 4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1748 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2970 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.1 L/100km | 13.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 92 L |
