2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK (167 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (129 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 439 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. 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, 1997 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, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (315 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK. (245 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | CLK | Golf |
Year Released | 2004 | 1997 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1795 cc | 1896 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 167 HP | 129 HP |
Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 245 Nm | 315 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 79.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 95.5 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 19.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1665 kg | 1226 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4160 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2480 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 55 L |