2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK vs. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK (228 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. (170 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 290 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta, 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 (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK | 2012 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | CLK | Jetta |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4644 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1778 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1482 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2651 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 55 L |
