2006 Audi A3 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CL
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CL is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Audi A3 would be higher. At 6,000 cc (12 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CL (621 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 483 more horse power than 2006 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CL should accelerate faster than 2006 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CL weights approximately 940 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 2006 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Mercedes-Benz CL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Audi A3 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 CL (999 Nm @ 2300 RPM) has 679 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz CL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Audi A3. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CL 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A3 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz CL | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | CL |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1967 cc | 6000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 621 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 999 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 2280 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 5105 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1872 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1427 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2954 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 90 L |
