2003 Audi A3 vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2003 Audi A3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK would be higher. At 2,597 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK (167 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 2003 Audi A3. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 2003 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 280 kg more than 2003 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 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 2002 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 (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Audi A3 | 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | CLK |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 2597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.4 seconds | 9.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1575 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
