2001 Audi A3 vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 12 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 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2013 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mercedes-Benz CLS (511 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 373 more horse power than 2001 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 2001 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 530 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 2013 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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 2013 Mercedes-Benz CLS. 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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz CLS (700 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 370 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Audi A3. (330 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2013 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Audi A3 | 2013 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | CLS |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1967 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | W |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 511 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 98 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 207 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.5 seconds | 4.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 1870 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4996 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 2075 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1406 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2874 mm |
