2009 Audi A3 vs. 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (197 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK. (134 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 570 kg more than 2009 Audi A3.
Because 1999 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 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK. 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, 2009 Audi A3 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK. (185 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK. 2009 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK has manual transmission. 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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 | 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | CLK |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1982 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 78.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1770 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 69 L |
