1984 Volkswagen Passat vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,795 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK (167 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 1984 Volkswagen Passat. (53 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 1984 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 620 kg more than 1984 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 Volkswagen Passat, 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK (245 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 144 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Volkswagen Passat. (101 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Volkswagen Passat. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK has automatic transmission and 1984 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 1984 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Volkswagen Passat | 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Passat | CLK |
| Year Released | 1984 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1795 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 101 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2300 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.5 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 85 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1045 kg | 1665 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 62 L |
