2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK vs. 1997 Volkswagen W12
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen W12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen W12 would be higher. At 5,600 cc (12 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen W12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen W12 (420 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 259 more horse power than 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK. (161 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen W12 should accelerate faster than 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 465 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen W12.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 W12 (719 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 479 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK. (240 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen W12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK | 1997 Volkswagen W12 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | CLK | W12 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 5600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | W |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 420 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 719 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 90.3 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 225 km/hour | 321 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1665 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1110 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 55 L |
