2007 Audi A3 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 Audi A3 would be higher. At 3,187 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS (264 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 2007 Audi A3. (247 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 2007 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 320 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 2007 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS (620 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 300 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Audi A3. 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS has automatic transmission and 2007 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2007 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Audi A3 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | CLS |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3187 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 264 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 620 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 15.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.3 seconds | 6.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1495 kg | 1815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1882 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1417 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2875 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 80 L |
