2005 Audi A3 vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2005 Audi A3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK would be higher. At 2,683 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK (170 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2005 Audi A3. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 2005 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 270 kg more than 2005 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Audi A3. (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Audi A3. 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK has automatic transmission and 2005 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2005 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi A3 | 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | CLK |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 2683 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 68.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 214 km/hour | 234 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.1 seconds | 9.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1315 kg | 1585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
