1997 Honda Prelude vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Honda Prelude. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Honda Prelude would be higher. At 2,985 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK (221 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1997 Honda Prelude. (200 HP @ 6800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 1997 Honda Prelude. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 440 kg more than 1997 Honda Prelude. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Honda Prelude, 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK (510 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 291 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Honda Prelude. (219 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Honda Prelude. 1997 Honda Prelude has automatic transmission and 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK has manual transmission. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Honda Prelude will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Honda Prelude | 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Honda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Prelude | CLK |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2157 cc | 2985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 221 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 219 Nm | 510 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.6:1 | 17.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 1730 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 62 L |
