1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK vs. 2004 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Passat (148 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK. (129 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 191 kg more than 2004 Volkswagen Passat.
Because 1999 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 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Volkswagen Passat (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK. (185 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK. 2004 Volkswagen Passat has automatic transmission and 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK has manual transmission. 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK | 2004 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | CLK | Passat |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.7 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.6:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1309 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 62 L |
