2009 Audi A3 vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR would be higher. At 6,898 cc (12 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR (613 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 416 more horse power than 2009 Audi A3. (197 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR weights approximately 614 kg more than 2009 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR (790 Nm @ 5250 RPM) has 510 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A3. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A3. 2009 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR has manual transmission. 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | CLK GTR |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1982 cc | 6898 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 613 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 790 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 92.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 234 km/hour | 322 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7 seconds | 3.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1544 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1960 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1770 mm | 1170 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 90 L |
