2003 Audi A3 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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 3,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS (288 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 2003 Audi A3. (246 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 2003 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Audi A3 weights approximately 145 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS.
Because 2003 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Audi A3 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS (365 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Audi A3. (310 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 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 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | A3 | CLS |
Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3188 cc | 3497 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 246 HP | 288 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6400 RPM |
Torque | 310 Nm | 365 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 92.9 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 95.9 mm | 86 mm |
Top Speed | 245 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.7 seconds | 6.7 seconds |
Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1880 kg | 1735 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4920 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1880 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2860 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |