1971 Dodge Challenger vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Dodge Challenger. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Dodge Challenger would be higher. At 3,685 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 Dodge Challenger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK (228 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 1971 Dodge Challenger. (123 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 1971 Dodge Challenger. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 174 kg more than 1971 Dodge Challenger. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Dodge Challenger. (233 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Dodge Challenger.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Dodge Challenger | 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Challenger | CLK |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3685 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 233 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 1644 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1940 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2720 mm |
