2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK would be higher. At 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK (216 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 110 kg more than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK (311 Nm) has 144 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (167 Nm). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK has automatic transmission and 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | CLK |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 3199 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 124 HP | 216 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 311 Nm |
| Top Speed | 196 km/hour | 209 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1155 kg | 1265 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 70 L |
