1996 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 4,195 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (275 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 108 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK. (167 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 325 kg more than 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK. 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK. (245 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz S | 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S | CLK |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4195 cc | 1795 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 275 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.9 mm | 85 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1990 kg | 1665 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5120 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1420 mm |
