2001 Audi A3 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL is newer by 8 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 6,208 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL (518 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 414 more horse power than 2001 Audi A3. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL should accelerate faster than 2001 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL weights approximately 31 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 2009 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL. 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL (630 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 380 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Audi A3. (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Audi A3. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL 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. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Audi A3 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | CL |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 6208 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 518 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 630 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1326 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 5070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1880 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2960 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.1 L/100km | 6.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 90 L |
