2004 Audi A3 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Audi A3 would be higher. At 3,189 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi A3 (252 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK. (167 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 100 kg more than 2004 Audi A3.
Because 2004 Audi A3 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, 2004 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, 2004 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK. (245 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A3 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | CLK |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3189 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 252 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.9 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1565 kg | 1665 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 62 L |
