2007 Audi A4 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 Audi A4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 Audi A4 would be higher. At 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS (518 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 301 more horse power than 2007 Audi A4. (217 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 2007 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 410 kg more than 2007 Audi A4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Audi A4, 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS (699 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 399 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Audi A4. (300 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Audi A4. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS has automatic transmission and 2007 Audi A4 has manual transmission. 2007 Audi A4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Audi A4 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A4 | CLS |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 518 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 699 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4996 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1882 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1407 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2875 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |
