2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK vs. 1977 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 259 more horse power than 1977 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 1977 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 965 kg more than 1977 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1977 Volkswagen Beetle, 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK (461 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 374 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Volkswagen Beetle. (87 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK | 1977 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | CLK | Beetle |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1977 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4966 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 461 Nm | 87 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2410 mm |
