1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR vs. 2006 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR would be higher. At 6,898 cc (12 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR (604 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 407 more horse power than 2006 Volkswagen Passat. (197 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR should accelerate faster than 2006 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 180 kg more than 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR.
Because 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR 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 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR (770 Nm @ 5250 RPM) has 490 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Volkswagen Passat. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR | 2006 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | CLK GTR | Passat |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 6898 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 604 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6800 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 770 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5250 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.4 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1265 kg | 1445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2720 mm |
