1989 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 3,196 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL (228 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK. (215 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 26 kg more than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL.
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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK (311 Nm) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. (267 Nm). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SL | CLK |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2962 cc | 3196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 267 Nm | 311 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 88.6 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80.3 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 1716 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 62 L |
