1972 Volkswagen K 70 vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Volkswagen K 70. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Volkswagen K 70 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK (167 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 1972 Volkswagen K 70. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 1972 Volkswagen K 70. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 615 kg more than 1972 Volkswagen K 70. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1972 Volkswagen K 70, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK (245 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 121 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Volkswagen K 70. (124 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Volkswagen K 70. 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK has automatic transmission and 1972 Volkswagen K 70 has manual transmission. 1972 Volkswagen K 70 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Volkswagen K 70 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | K 70 | CLK |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1605 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76 mm | 85 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1050 kg | 1665 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 62 L |
