2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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 CLS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS would be higher. At 6,206 cc (8 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS (507 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 367 more horse power than 2012 Audi A3. (140 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 2012 Audi A3.
Because 2007 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 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS. 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 CLS (631 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 311 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS | 2012 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
| Model | CLS | A3 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6206 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 507 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 631 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4910 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1763 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1422 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 11.8 L/100km | 5.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 18.1 L/100km | 7.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |
