2008 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2008 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK would be higher. At 4,964 cc, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK (355 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 127 more horse power than 2008 Mazda RX-8. (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda RX-8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 290 kg more than 2008 Mazda RX-8. 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 249 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda RX-8. (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda RX-8. 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK has automatic transmission and 2008 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2008 Mazda RX-8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda RX-8 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | RX-8 | CLK |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 4964 cc |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 355 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1715 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 70 L |
