2003 Audi A3 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 5 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK (269 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 131 more horse power than 2003 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 2003 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 310 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 2008 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 2008 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Audi A3. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK has automatic transmission and 2003 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2003 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Audi A3 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | CLK |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1967 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 269 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 207 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.5 seconds | 6.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 1650 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 62 L |
