1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK vs. 2012 Ford Shelby GT500
To start off, 2012 Ford Shelby GT500 is newer by 14 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 5,400 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Ford Shelby GT500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Ford Shelby GT500 (550 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 334 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK. (216 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Ford Shelby GT500 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Ford Shelby GT500 weights approximately 535 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.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2012 Ford Shelby GT500 (691 Nm) has 380 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK. (311 Nm). This means 2012 Ford Shelby GT500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK. 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK has automatic transmission and 2012 Ford Shelby GT500 has manual transmission. 2012 Ford Shelby GT500 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 | 2012 Ford Shelby GT500 | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Ford |
Model | CLK | Shelby GT500 |
Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3199 cc | 5400 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Horse Power | 216 HP | 550 HP |
Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6200 RPM |
Torque | 311 Nm | 691 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1265 kg | 1800 kg |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 61 L |