1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 11 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 2,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (161 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK. (134 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 10 kg more than 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 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 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (350 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK. (190 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK. 2008 Volkswagen Passat has automatic transmission and 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK has manual transmission. 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | CLK | Passat |
Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2496 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 134 HP | 161 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 190 Nm | 350 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.6:1 | 18.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1510 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4710 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2710 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 69 L | 62 L |