2009 Audi A3 vs. 2010 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2010 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Audi A3 would be higher. At 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2010 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mercedes-Benz CLS (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 281 more horse power than 2009 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 555 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 2010 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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 2010 Mercedes-Benz CLS. 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, 2010 Mercedes-Benz CLS (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 382 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A3. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2010 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A3. 2010 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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. 2010 Mercedes-Benz CLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 2010 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | CLS |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 382 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 1835 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4917 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1872 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1415 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2855 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
