2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK vs. 1984 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 3,196 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK (215 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 162 more horse power than 1984 Volkswagen Passat. (53 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 1984 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 665 kg more than 1984 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 Volkswagen Passat, 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK (311 Nm) has 210 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Volkswagen Passat. (101 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK | 1984 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | CLK | Passat |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1984 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3196 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 311 Nm | 101 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1710 kg | 1045 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 60 L |
