1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK vs. 2003 Volkswagen Touareg
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Touareg is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK would be higher. At 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen Touareg (217 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK. (216 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Touareg should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen Touareg weights approximately 945 kg more than 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Volkswagen Touareg is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Touareg 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK (311 Nm) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volkswagen Touareg. (305 Nm). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volkswagen Touareg. 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK has automatic transmission and 2003 Volkswagen Touareg has manual transmission. 2003 Volkswagen Touareg will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK | 2003 Volkswagen Touareg | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | CLK | Touareg |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3199 cc | 3189 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 216 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 311 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1265 kg | 2210 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 100 L |
