2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS vs. 2004 Audi S3
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Audi S3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Audi S3 would be higher. At 4,663 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS (402 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 180 more horse power than 2004 Audi S3. (222 HP @ 5900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi S3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 467 kg more than 2004 Audi S3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Audi S3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Audi S3 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS (600 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 320 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi S3. (280 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi S3. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS has automatic transmission and 2004 Audi S3 has manual transmission. 2004 Audi S3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS | 2004 Audi S3 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
| Model | CLS | S3 |
| Year Released | 2012 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4663 cc | 1779 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 402 HP | 222 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 600 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 243 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.2 seconds | 6.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | 7-speed shiftable automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1890 kg | 1423 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4940 mm | 4170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1882 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1417 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2875 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 62 L |
