2005 Audi A3 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2005 Audi A3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK would be higher. At 5,441 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK (362 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 214 more horse power than 2005 Audi A3. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 2005 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 334 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 2004 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 2004 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK (510 Nm) has 310 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Audi A3. (200 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi A3 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | CLK |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 5441 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 362 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 510 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1315 kg | 1649 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7 L/100km | 12.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 62 L |
