2009 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK would be higher. At 2,996 cc, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (228 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK. (134 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 55 kg more than 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK. 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (301 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 111 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK. (190 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C | CLK |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 1998 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 301 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1555 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 69 L |
