2001 Mercedes-Benz CLK vs. 2004 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Mercedes-Benz CLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Mercedes-Benz CLK would be higher. At 5,000 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Golf (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 2001 Mercedes-Benz CLK. (94 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2001 Mercedes-Benz CLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 770 kg more than 2004 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 2001 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 2001 Mercedes-Benz CLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2001 Mercedes-Benz CLK (460 Nm) has 259 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen Golf. (201 Nm). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen Golf. 2001 Mercedes-Benz CLK has automatic transmission and 2004 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2004 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Mercedes-Benz CLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mercedes-Benz CLK | 2004 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | CLK | Golf |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5000 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 460 Nm | 201 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2010 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |
