2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK vs. 1998 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 10 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 6,208 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK (475 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 402 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (73 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 80 kg more than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK (631 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 505 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (126 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. 2008 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. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK | 1998 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | CLK | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6208 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 475 HP | 73 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 631 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 102.2 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94.6 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2520 mm |
