2003 Audi A3 vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2003 Audi A3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK would be higher. At 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Audi A3 (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK. (134 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 160 kg more than 2003 Audi A3.
Because 1998 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK. (185 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2003 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Audi A3 | 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | A3 | CLK |
Year Released | 2003 | 1998 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1967 cc | 1996 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 134 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 320 Nm | 185 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3700 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 89.9 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 78.7 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.6:1 |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Top Speed | 207 km/hour | 209 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 1500 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4580 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2720 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 69 L |