2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK vs. 2012 Audi A3
To start off, 2012 Audi A3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK would be higher. At 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK (221 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 2012 Audi A3. (140 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 2012 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 280 kg more than 2012 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 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 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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 Mercedes-Benz CLK (511 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 191 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK | 2012 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
| Model | CLK | A3 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2987 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 221 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 511 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1505 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1763 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1422 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 55 L |
