1986 Honda Civic vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Honda Civic. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Honda Civic would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK (228 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 103 more horse power than 1986 Honda Civic. (125 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 1986 Honda Civic. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 790 kg more than 1986 Honda Civic. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Honda Civic, 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 158 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Honda Civic. (142 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Honda Civic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Honda Civic | 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Honda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Civic | CLK |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1590 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 125 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 142 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75.1 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 82.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 11.1:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 1690 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3760 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2210 mm | 2720 mm |
