2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK vs. 2009 Audi A3
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK (167 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 2009 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 399 kg more than 2009 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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 Mercedes-Benz CLK (245 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A3. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A3. 2009 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK has manual transmission. 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK | 2009 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
| Model | CLK | A3 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 77.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1665 kg | 1266 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 55 L |
