2003 Audi A8 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Audi A8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Audi A8 would be higher. At 3,936 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Audi A8 (276 HP @ 3750 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK. (221 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Audi A8 weights approximately 150 kg more than 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Audi A8 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, 2003 Audi A8 (650 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK. (510 Nm @ 1400 RPM). This means 2003 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK. 2003 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK has manual transmission. 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Audi A8 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | CLK |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3936 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 276 HP | 221 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3750 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 650 Nm | 510 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81.1 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 17.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1880 kg | 1730 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.6 L/100km | 8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 62 L |
