2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS vs. 2011 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS would be higher. At 6,207 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS (507 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 307 more horse power than 2011 Volkswagen GTI. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 2011 Volkswagen GTI.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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 CLS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS (630 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 350 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Volkswagen GTI. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Volkswagen GTI. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS has automatic transmission and 2011 Volkswagen GTI has manual transmission. 2011 Volkswagen GTI will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS | 2011 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | CLS | GTI |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6207 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 507 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6800 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 630 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4211 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1778 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1468 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |
