1991 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 @ 6000 RPM) has 154 more horse power than 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL. (228 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 1140 kg more than 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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 CLK (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 258 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL. (272 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK has automatic transmission and 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL has manual transmission. 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SL | CLK |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2961 cc | 5460 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 382 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 272 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 2830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 62 L |
