2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK vs. 2012 Audi A3
To start off, 2012 Audi A3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 2012 Audi A3. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 2012 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 325 kg more than 2012 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Audi A3, 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 Mercedes-Benz CLK (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Audi A3. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Audi A3. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK has automatic transmission and 2012 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2012 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK | 2012 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
| Model | CLK | A3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 268 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1763 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1422 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 55 L |
