2007 Audi A3 vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2007 Audi A3 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK (134 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 2007 Audi A3. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 2007 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 138 kg more than 2007 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 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 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2007 Audi A3 (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK. (190 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2007 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Audi A3 | 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | CLK |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 10.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1362 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 69 L |
