2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK vs. 1996 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 5,441 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK (362 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 288 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 602 kg more than 1996 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, 1996 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 (510 Nm) has 370 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (140 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK | 1996 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | CLK | Passat |
Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5441 cc | 1781 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 362 HP | 74 HP |
Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 510 Nm | 140 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 86.4 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1812 kg | 1210 kg |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1620 mm |