2006 Audi A3 vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK LM
To start off, 2006 Audi A3 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK LM. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK LM would be higher. At 5,000 cc (12 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK LM is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK LM (664 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 467 more horse power than 2006 Audi A3. (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK LM should accelerate faster than 2006 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK LM weights approximately 36 kg more than 2006 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK LM 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK LM. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK LM (773 Nm) has 493 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Audi A3. (280 Nm). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK LM will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Audi A3. 2006 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK LM has manual transmission. 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK LM will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A3 | 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK LM | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | CLK LM |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 5000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 664 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 773 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1374 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1960 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1170 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
