2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK vs. 2005 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 2005 Volkswagen Passat. (170 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 2005 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 331 kg more than 2005 Volkswagen Passat. 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, 2005 Volkswagen Passat, 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 (350 Nm) has 124 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volkswagen Passat. (226 Nm). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK | 2005 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | CLK | Passat |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 268 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 226 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1454 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2690 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.1 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 62 L |
