2006 Audi A3 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLS
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 CLS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLS would be higher. At 5,438 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLS (469 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 321 more horse power than 2006 Audi A3. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 2006 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 605 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 CLS 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 CLS. 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLS (700 Nm @ 2650 RPM) has 500 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Audi A3. (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Audi A3. 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLS has automatic transmission and 2006 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2006 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A3 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | CLS |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1982 cc | 5438 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 469 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2650 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 214 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.1 seconds | 4.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1315 kg | 1920 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 3090 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7 L/100km | 13.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
