1972 Dodge Challenger vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Dodge Challenger. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Dodge Challenger would be higher. At 3,678 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 Dodge Challenger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 159 more horse power than 1972 Dodge Challenger. (109 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 1972 Dodge Challenger. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 1485 kg more than 1972 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Dodge Challenger. (256 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Dodge Challenger.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Dodge Challenger | 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Challenger | CLK |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3678 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 256 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 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 | 1345 kg | 2830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1950 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2720 mm |
