2008 Audi A3 vs. 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 1 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 5,460 cc (8 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 244 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A3.
Because 2008 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2007 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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 210 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 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 2008 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | CLS |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 5460 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 382 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 98 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 90.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4910 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.8 L/100km | 13.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 80 L |
