2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK vs. 1998 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 5,461 cc (8 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 268 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 2007 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 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 364 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (166 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK has automatic transmission and 1998 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1998 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK | 1998 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | CLK | Golf |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5461 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 382 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 530 Nm | 166 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 98.1 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.5 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 55 L |
