2012 Audi A3 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2012 Audi A3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK (362 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 162 more horse power than 2012 Audi A3. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 2012 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 360 kg more than 2012 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK (510 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 230 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Audi A3. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Audi A3 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | CLK |
| Year Released | 2012 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2000 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 362 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 510 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | 6-speed automated manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1763 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1422 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2578 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 7.8 L/100km | 10.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.2 L/100km | 14.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 62 L |
