1999 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz CL
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz CL is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz CL (603 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 483 more horse power than 1999 Mercedes-Benz C. (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz CL should accelerate faster than 1999 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz CL weights approximately 745 kg more than 1999 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz CL (1,000 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 830 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mercedes-Benz C. (170 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz CL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Mercedes-Benz C | 2003 Mercedes-Benz CL | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C | CL |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1799 cc | 5980 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 603 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 1000 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.3 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.7 mm | 93 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 2155 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 88 L |
