2008 Audi A3 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Audi A3 would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS (305 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (250 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 280 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 2012 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS (370 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2012 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 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | A3 | CLS |
Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
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 | 305 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Torque | 320 Nm | 370 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 12.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1455 kg | 1735 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4940 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1882 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1417 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2875 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |