2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK vs. 2011 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2011 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volkswagen Golf (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK. (169 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 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 204 kg more than 2011 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, 2011 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 (250 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Volkswagen Golf. (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK | 2011 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | CLK | Golf |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 169 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1346 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4201 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1481 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
