1980 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 3,818 cc (8 cylinders), 1980 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1980 Mercedes-Benz S. (218 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 1980 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 160 kg more than 2006 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mercedes-Benz S. (306 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Mercedes-Benz S | 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S | CLK |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3818 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 218 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 306 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 92.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.8 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 1435 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2720 mm |
