2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK vs. 1980 Toyota Corolla
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Toyota Corolla. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Toyota Corolla would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK (167 HP) has 108 more horse power than 1980 Toyota Corolla. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 1980 Toyota Corolla. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 780 kg more than 1980 Toyota Corolla. 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK (245 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 152 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Toyota Corolla. (93 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Toyota Corolla.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK | 1980 Toyota Corolla | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Toyota |
| Model | CLK | Corolla |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1288 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 93 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1665 kg | 885 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4110 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 46 L |
