2008 Audi A3 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS
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 CLS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS would be higher. At 4,965 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (247 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 255 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 CLS. 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 CLS (460 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A3. 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS has automatic transmission and 2008 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2008 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | CLS |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3189 cc | 4965 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.9 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 245 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.8 seconds | 6.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1555 kg | 1810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.6 L/100km | 11.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 89 L |
