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 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK (302 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 228 more horse power than 1985 Volkswagen Passat. (74 HP @ 5000 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 731 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 (460 Nm) has 335 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Volkswagen Passat. (125 Nm). 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 | 4966 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 460 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1771 kg | 1040 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2560 mm |
