2009 Audi A3 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK (362 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 261 more horse power than 2009 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 544 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 2006 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 2006 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK (510 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 362 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A3. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A3. 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK has automatic transmission and 2009 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2009 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | CLK |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 362 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 510 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.9 seconds | 5.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 1824 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.1 L/100km | 12.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 62 L |
