2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK vs. 1985 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK (167 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 108 more horse power than 1985 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 1985 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 645 kg more than 1985 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK (245 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 145 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Volkswagen Passat. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK | 1985 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | CLK | Passat |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1665 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2560 mm |
