2009 Audi A3 vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK would be higher. At 2,597 cc (5 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK. (167 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 100 kg more than 2009 Audi A3.
Because 2002 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 2002 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK (400 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A3. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | CLK |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1982 cc | 2597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 236 km/hour | 228 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7 seconds | 9.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 1585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
