2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK vs. 2001 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,596 cc (5 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Volkswagen Golf (168 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK. (161 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 390 kg more than 2001 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 2002 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK (400 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 175 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. (225 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK | 2001 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | CLK | Golf |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2596 cc | 2324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1645 kg | 1255 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2520 mm |
