Comparative benchmark calculations are presented for coupled cluster theory in its standard formulation, as well as variational, extended, and unitary coupled cluster methods. The systems studied include HF, N(2), and CN, and with cluster operators that for the first time include up to quadruple excitations. In cases where static correlation effects are weak, the differences between the predictions of molecular properties from each theory are negligible. When, however, static correlation is strong, it is demonstrated that variational coupled cluster theory can be significantly more robust than the traditional ansatz and offers a starting point on which to base single-determinant reference methods that can be used beyond the normal domain of applicability. These conclusions hold at all levels of truncation of the cluster operator, with the variational approach showing significantly smaller errors.