1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK vs. 2002 Porsche 996
To start off, 2002 Porsche 996 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK would be higher. At 3,596 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Porsche 996 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Porsche 996 (317 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 183 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK. (134 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Porsche 996 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 15 kg more than 2002 Porsche 996.
Because 2002 Porsche 996 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Porsche 996 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2002 Porsche 996 (371 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 181 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK. (190 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2002 Porsche 996 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK | 2002 Porsche 996 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Porsche |
| Model | CLK | 996 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 3596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 317 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 371 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2360 mm |
