2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 260 kg more than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle.
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, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle, 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 (460 Nm) has 295 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (165 Nm). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | CLK | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4966 cc | 1982 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 115 HP |
| Torque | 460 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1660 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.5 L/100km | 9.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 55 L |
