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 5,461 cc (8 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 185 more horse power than 2004 Audi A3. (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A3.
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 (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 300 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A3. (230 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A3. 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK has automatic transmission and 2004 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2004 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
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 | 1983 cc | 5461 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 382 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 98.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 90.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.7 L/100km | 12.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 62 L |
