CLA250 v. CLA45 AMG
10-23-2014, 01:42 PM
#26
Member
Join Date: May 2014
Posts: 102
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
2011 WRX
I'll probably be stoned to death for mentioning this but if you want turbocharged performance with tons of opportunities for modifications, give the BMW M235i a look.
I've driven the M235i a few times for kicks now and it is very impressive.
Can't go wrong with the CLA45. I would pass on the 250.
I've driven the M235i a few times for kicks now and it is very impressive.
Can't go wrong with the CLA45. I would pass on the 250.
Give it some time and there will be some proper tuning and more mods for this platform for sure. I also agree the M235i is a great car, but it depends if the OP requires AWD or not. The lack of AWD, and the fact it is using essentially the same engine (albeit slightly different derivation now, N55 vs the old twin turbo N54) since 2007 without really offering any better fuel economy or power since then, kinda disappoints me.
10-23-2014, 02:21 PM
#27
MBWorld Fanatic!
If you bought the 250, you would've wished you "sprang" a little more for the 45. If it wouldn't be too much of an issue financially, you might want to make that upgrade.
10-23-2014, 04:30 PM
#28
MBWorld Fanatic!
Join Date: Jan 2007
Location: Chicago
Posts: 1,257
Likes: 0
Received 5 Likes
on
5 Posts
2015.5 Volvo V60 Polestar
I'll probably be stoned to death for mentioning this but if you want turbocharged performance with tons of opportunities for modifications, give the BMW M235i a look.
I've driven the M235i a few times for kicks now and it is very impressive.
Can't go wrong with the CLA45. I would pass on the 250.
I've driven the M235i a few times for kicks now and it is very impressive.
Can't go wrong with the CLA45. I would pass on the 250.
With the discounts I receive on Audi Vehicles, it about a 10k difference for between the CLA45 and S3.
Just waiting on to test drive both, to finally make the decision. I know the audi will also have a much larger and less expenisve aftermarket as well. But AMG... It's a tough choice.
10-23-2014, 04:35 PM
#29
Former Vendor of MBWorld
To be honest, I love the styling of the M235i and would take it over the CLA250. That's only if I couldn't get an AMG.
I'll probably be stoned to death for mentioning this but if you want turbocharged performance with tons of opportunities for modifications, give the BMW M235i a look.
I've driven the M235i a few times for kicks now and it is very impressive.
Can't go wrong with the CLA45. I would pass on the 250.
I've driven the M235i a few times for kicks now and it is very impressive.
Can't go wrong with the CLA45. I would pass on the 250.
10-23-2014, 05:39 PM
#30
Senior Member
Join Date: May 2011
Location: Northern Virginia
Posts: 480
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
2019 Audi TT RS, 2020 BMW X3M Competition
"Stoned to death" made me laugh haha Give it some time and there will be some proper tuning and more mods for this platform for sure. I also agree the M235i is a great car, but it depends if the OP requires AWD or not. The lack of AWD, and the fact it is using essentially the same engine (albeit slightly different derivation now, N55 vs the old twin turbo N54) since 2007 without really offering any better fuel economy or power since then, kinda disappoints me.
10-23-2014, 07:55 PM
#31
Member
Join Date: Jul 2014
Posts: 147
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
CLA45 AMG
10-24-2014, 04:27 PM
#32
MBWorld Fanatic!
The S3 is also worth a look, and for me is the biggest contender against the CLA45.
With the discounts I receive on Audi Vehicles, it about a 10k difference for between the CLA45 and S3.
Just waiting on to test drive both, to finally make the decision. I know the audi will also have a much larger and less expenisve aftermarket as well. But AMG... It's a tough choice.
With the discounts I receive on Audi Vehicles, it about a 10k difference for between the CLA45 and S3.
Just waiting on to test drive both, to finally make the decision. I know the audi will also have a much larger and less expenisve aftermarket as well. But AMG... It's a tough choice.
10-24-2014, 05:20 PM
#33
Super Member
Thread Starter
Your comment spurred research of the MKVII. Wow what a car. A $700 APR chip nets you 291 WHP and 367 WTQ. That puts you in stock CLA45 territory. Killer interior, good looks, well balanced chassis dynamics, not a bad car.
That said it doesn't take much to end up at CLA45 money.
The S3 is also worth a look, and for me is the biggest contender against the CLA45.
With the discounts I receive on Audi Vehicles, it about a 10k difference for between the CLA45 and S3.
Just waiting on to test drive both, to finally make the decision. I know the audi will also have a much larger and less expenisve aftermarket as well. But AMG... It's a tough choice.
With the discounts I receive on Audi Vehicles, it about a 10k difference for between the CLA45 and S3.
Just waiting on to test drive both, to finally make the decision. I know the audi will also have a much larger and less expenisve aftermarket as well. But AMG... It's a tough choice.
"Stoned to death" made me laugh haha
Give it some time and there will be some proper tuning and more mods for this platform for sure. I also agree the M235i is a great car, but it depends if the OP requires AWD or not. The lack of AWD, and the fact it is using essentially the same engine (albeit slightly different derivation now, N55 vs the old twin turbo N54) since 2007 without really offering any better fuel economy or power since then, kinda disappoints me.
Give it some time and there will be some proper tuning and more mods for this platform for sure. I also agree the M235i is a great car, but it depends if the OP requires AWD or not. The lack of AWD, and the fact it is using essentially the same engine (albeit slightly different derivation now, N55 vs the old twin turbo N54) since 2007 without really offering any better fuel economy or power since then, kinda disappoints me.
The more I research the sub $50k category. The more I think the CLA45 is right for me.
10-24-2014, 05:42 PM
#34
MBWorld Fanatic!
Just a note on the DCT. In the CLA, it is not as responsive and quick as its competitors, so dont expect it to be a DSG or PDK. In fact I think the 8speed ZF in the M235i is better (that transmission is better than the MCT in my C63 at least).
To be honest in this class I would not get the CLA45 because of 1 its DCT is not that good and 2 its a front wheel drive based awd. It actually becomes only fwd if you push it too hard and the diff overheats (happened to my friend in AMG academy).
My choice would be an S3 or a slightly used S4 if I were going to spend <50k on a awd performance sedan because the transmission and awd system is much better. That said I totally understand the AMG brand appeal and the cool looks of the CLA
To be honest in this class I would not get the CLA45 because of 1 its DCT is not that good and 2 its a front wheel drive based awd. It actually becomes only fwd if you push it too hard and the diff overheats (happened to my friend in AMG academy).
My choice would be an S3 or a slightly used S4 if I were going to spend <50k on a awd performance sedan because the transmission and awd system is much better. That said I totally understand the AMG brand appeal and the cool looks of the CLA
10-24-2014, 07:11 PM
#35
Member
Join Date: May 2014
Posts: 102
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
2011 WRX
Just a note on the DCT. In the CLA, it is not as responsive and quick as its competitors, so dont expect it to be a DSG or PDK. In fact I think the 8speed ZF in the M235i is better (that transmission is better than the MCT in my C63 at least).
To be honest in this class I would not get the CLA45 because of 1 its DCT is not that good and 2 its a front wheel drive based awd. It actually becomes only fwd if you push it too hard and the diff overheats (happened to my friend in AMG academy).
My choice would be an S3 or a slightly used S4 if I were going to spend <50k on a awd performance sedan because the transmission and awd system is much better. That said I totally understand the AMG brand appeal and the cool looks of the CLA
To be honest in this class I would not get the CLA45 because of 1 its DCT is not that good and 2 its a front wheel drive based awd. It actually becomes only fwd if you push it too hard and the diff overheats (happened to my friend in AMG academy).
My choice would be an S3 or a slightly used S4 if I were going to spend <50k on a awd performance sedan because the transmission and awd system is much better. That said I totally understand the AMG brand appeal and the cool looks of the CLA
I think what you are referring to is when the car uses Race Start numerous times in a row, it causes the rear diff to overheat and then yes the car is FWD until it has a chance to cool. The over heating is only caused by excessive wheelspin during Race Starts, not during hard track driving.
10-24-2014, 08:39 PM
#36
To be honest in this class I would not get the CLA45 because of 1 its DCT is not that good and 2 its a front wheel drive based awd. It actually becomes only fwd if you push it too hard and the diff overheats (happened to my friend in AMG academy).
My choice would be an S3 or a slightly used S4 if I were going to spend <50k on a awd performance sedan because the transmission and awd system is much better. That said I totally understand the AMG brand appeal and the cool looks of the CLA
But I don't like VAG's reputation for lack of reliability. From first and second hand experiences, it's been clear to me to avoid them even though I do like Audi's overall designs.
10-24-2014, 08:46 PM
#37
Out Of Control!!
Join Date: Jun 2004
Posts: 11,717
Received 2,040 Likes
on
1,422 Posts
2014 E63S; AMS 100 octane ecu tune; edok tcu tune; BB intakes; dyno tuned
He never said anywhere that the 250 is like a 45. He is comparing the 250 with a tune to the 45. And what he said regarding the 250 with a tune being great bang for your buck, he is right.
No need to be a total Asshat with your immature 'Lol's and nonsensical "Good try bro". If you can't offer him proper advice as to why the AMG is better, better off to forgo posting at all. Just embarassing to read a reply like this to someone who is asking enthusiasts opinions as to which route he should go.
No need to be a total Asshat with your immature 'Lol's and nonsensical "Good try bro". If you can't offer him proper advice as to why the AMG is better, better off to forgo posting at all. Just embarassing to read a reply like this to someone who is asking enthusiasts opinions as to which route he should go.
10-24-2014, 10:38 PM
#38
Super Member
Thread Starter
Just a note on the DCT. In the CLA, it is not as responsive and quick as its competitors, so dont expect it to be a DSG or PDK. In fact I think the 8speed ZF in the M235i is better (that transmission is better than the MCT in my C63 at least).
To be honest in this class I would not get the CLA45 because of 1 its DCT is not that good and 2 its a front wheel drive based awd. It actually becomes only fwd if you push it too hard and the diff overheats (happened to my friend in AMG academy).
My choice would be an S3 or a slightly used S4 if I were going to spend <50k on a awd performance sedan because the transmission and awd system is much better. That said I totally understand the AMG brand appeal and the cool looks of the CLA
To be honest in this class I would not get the CLA45 because of 1 its DCT is not that good and 2 its a front wheel drive based awd. It actually becomes only fwd if you push it too hard and the diff overheats (happened to my friend in AMG academy).
My choice would be an S3 or a slightly used S4 if I were going to spend <50k on a awd performance sedan because the transmission and awd system is much better. That said I totally understand the AMG brand appeal and the cool looks of the CLA
Definitely a valid point about the DCT issues in the CLA45. Aftermarket vendors have made some progress to bridge the gap to DSG/PDK (Rebellion) however how it stacks up remains to be seen.
Interesting note about the diff overheating! I wonder if in an autoX that could be replicated? Regardless a good piece of information to know.
Interesting you mention the S3 and S4. Would you not classify them at front wheel biased as well? Honestly the front wheel bias doesn't bother me especially with AWD in the mix. I might **** off a few loyal fan boys here but i'd say the CLA45 is an 8/10's car anyway like most cars in this segment including the S3/4. I'm OK with it. My Civic SI to a lesser degree is like this and it's been one of the funnest cars I've owned.
10-24-2014, 10:52 PM
#39
MBWorld Fanatic!
Im posting from the app so I cant multiquote but the problem my friend had was in the Auto X exercise at the AMG academy. He told me the CLAs they provided kept going into FF after a couple rounds. Now I'm sure this wouldnt happen in normal street driving but its a possible concern if you intend to track it.
But what I dont like about the CLA is the front bias awd, so it starts out in front wheel drive and transfers up to 50% to the rear if it detects slip, kinda like Honda CRV. In standard cruising etc its front wheel drive.
The Audis on the other hand are full time awd and can send most (more than 50% dont remember its exact figure) power to rear (more like subarus)
But what I dont like about the CLA is the front bias awd, so it starts out in front wheel drive and transfers up to 50% to the rear if it detects slip, kinda like Honda CRV. In standard cruising etc its front wheel drive.
The Audis on the other hand are full time awd and can send most (more than 50% dont remember its exact figure) power to rear (more like subarus)
10-25-2014, 07:48 AM
#40
Senior Member
Join Date: May 2011
Location: Northern Virginia
Posts: 480
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
2019 Audi TT RS, 2020 BMW X3M Competition
It's certainly not the best AWD system but it serves it's purpose well. My tire wear is surprisingly close for front and rear so it must be splitting tq pretty evenly much of the time. I also drive in M with ESP in Sport so I'm sure that'll make a big difference as opposed to someone in C with ESP in normal mode.
Last edited by bmoney12; 10-25-2014 at 08:30 AM.
10-25-2014, 11:16 AM
#41
MBWorld Fanatic!
It's not just when it detects slippage there are a bunch of factors. The variables influencing the torque split ratio are vehicle speed, lateral and longitudinal acceleration, steering angle, speed difference between the individual wheels, selected gear and accelerator position. ESP Sport also influences the tq split. It's certainly not the best AWD system but it serves it's purpose well. My tire wear is surprisingly close for front and rear so it must be splitting tq pretty evenly much of the time. I also drive in M with ESP in Sport so I'm sure that'll make a big difference as opposed to someone in C with ESP in normal mode.
10-25-2014, 12:58 PM
#42
Senior Member
Join Date: May 2011
Location: Northern Virginia
Posts: 480
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
2019 Audi TT RS, 2020 BMW X3M Competition
That all being said I'm sure when cruising at 70 on the highway I bet it's still 100% FWD with any mode. I asked that questioned on the AMG PL and they couldn't answer it saying it just depends so no way to know.
10-27-2014, 01:14 PM
#44
Member
Join Date: May 2014
Posts: 102
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
2011 WRX
Where did he say he had no interest in AMG? And I'm CERTAIN that not every single AMG owner has the mindset that it's 'AMG or Nothing,' I mean come on. It's a very valid question he's asking. He likes the car as a whole, and is wondering whether the 45 would be a viable option to upgrade to at that price point, compared the more pedestrian 250. Doesn't seem like it's a crazy question to me... Especially for someone who's never owned an AMG before.
