2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK vs. 2012 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK would be higher. At 2,985 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen GTI (232 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK. (221 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 329 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen GTI.
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, 2012 Volkswagen GTI, 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 (510 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 210 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen GTI. (300 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen GTI.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK | 2012 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | CLK | GTI |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2985 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 221 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 510 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 242 km/hour | 246 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.6 seconds | 6.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1730 kg | 1401 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1501 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.5 L/100km | 8.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 55 L |
