2002 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2002 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 4 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, 2002 Mazda RX-8 (238 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK. (216 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 73 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK (311 Nm) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mazda RX-8. (211 Nm). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mazda RX-8. 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK has automatic transmission and 2002 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2002 Mazda RX-8 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:
| 2002 Mazda RX-8 | 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | RX-8 | CLK |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 3199 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | V |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 216 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 311 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1338 kg | 1265 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 70 L |
