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 5,437 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK (574 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 474 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (100 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Passat.
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 (800 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 655 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (145 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK has automatic transmission and 1996 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 1996 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK | 1996 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | CLK | Passat |
Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5437 cc | 1593 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 574 HP | 100 HP |
Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 800 Nm | 145 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 77.4 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4680 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2970 mm | 2710 mm |