2008 Audi A4 vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2008 Audi A4 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK would be higher. At 1,982 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Audi A4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A4 (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK. (167 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 505 kg more than 2008 Audi A4.
Because 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Audi A4, 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, 2008 Audi A4 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK. (245 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A4 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A4 | CLK |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1982 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1665 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 62 L |
