2006 Audi A3 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2006 Audi A3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK (168 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 2006 Audi A3. (105 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 2006 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 370 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 2005 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK. 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, 2006 Audi A3 (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK. (240 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A3 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | CLK |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.5 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 187 km/hour | 225 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.4 seconds | 9.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1665 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.1 L/100km | 9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 62 L |
