1997 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,795 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK (167 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (115 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 505 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK (245 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (155 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK has automatic transmission and 1997 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1997 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Volkswagen Golf | 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
Make | Volkswagen | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Golf | CLK |
Year Released | 1997 | 2004 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1597 cc | 1795 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 115 HP | 167 HP |
Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5750 RPM |
Torque | 155 Nm | 245 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 82 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 85 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.7:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1665 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4530 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2720 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 62 L |