2002 Audi A8 vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Audi A8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Audi A8 would be higher. At 4,172 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Audi A8 (330 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 163 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK. (167 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Audi A8 weights approximately 190 kg more than 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Audi A8 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, 2002 Audi A8 (430 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 185 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK. (245 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Audi A8 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | CLK |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4172 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 330 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 430 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.6 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1855 kg | 1665 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 62 L |
