2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK vs. 1980 Honda Ballade
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Honda Ballade. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Honda Ballade would be higher. At 5,460 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK (382 HP) has 308 more horse power than 1980 Honda Ballade. (74 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 1980 Honda Ballade. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 2015 kg more than 1980 Honda Ballade. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Honda Ballade, 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 410 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Honda Ballade. (120 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Honda Ballade.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK | 1980 Honda Ballade | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Honda |
| Model | CLK | Ballade |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5460 cc | 1488 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 382 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 530 Nm | 120 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 2830 kg | 815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2330 mm |
