2003 Audi A3 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Audi A3 would be higher. At 4,965 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 189 more horse power than 2003 Audi A3. (113 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 2003 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 585 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 2006 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS. 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS (460 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 304 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Audi A3. (156 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Audi A3 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | CLS |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 4965 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 156 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.5 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.9 mm | 84 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 196 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.9 seconds | 6.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 89 L |
