2008 Audi A3 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (250 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 235 kg more than 2008 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK (351 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | CLK |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3196 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 250 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 351 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1455 kg | 1690 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.2 L/100km | 9.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 62 L |
