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 (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 145 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. 1971 Dodge Challenger weights approximately 355 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK.
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 (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 117 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 | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3685 cc | 3497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 233 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 1115 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 |
