1999 Kia Clarus vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Kia Clarus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Kia Clarus would be higher. At 2,985 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK (221 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 1999 Kia Clarus. (143 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 1999 Kia Clarus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 480 kg more than 1999 Kia Clarus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Kia Clarus, 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 Mercedes-Benz CLK (510 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 320 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Kia Clarus. (190 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Kia Clarus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Kia Clarus | 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Clarus | CLK |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 143 HP | 221 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 510 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.1 mm | 94 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1730 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2720 mm |
