2004 Audi A3 vs. 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 3 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 167 more horse power than 2004 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 35 kg more than 2004 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 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 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 202 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A3. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A3 | 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | CLK |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.2 seconds | 6.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7 L/100km | 9.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 62 L |
