2005 Audi A3 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Audi A3 would be higher. At 4,663 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS (402 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 264 more horse power than 2005 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 2005 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 592 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2005 Audi A3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS (600 Nm) has 280 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Audi A3. (320 Nm). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Audi A3. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi A3 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | CLS |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 4663 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 402 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 600 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1344 kg | 1936 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1882 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1417 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2875 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
