2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 2003 Renault Clio
To start off, 2003 Renault Clio is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. Both 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK and 2003 Renault Clio are equipped with a 1,998 cc engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Renault Clio (177 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (161 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Renault Clio should accelerate faster than 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 185 kg more than 2003 Renault Clio.
Because 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Renault Clio, 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, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK (234 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Renault Clio. (191 Nm @ 5250 RPM). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Renault Clio.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 2003 Renault Clio | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | SLK | Clio |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 177 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 234 Nm | 191 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 3820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2490 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 50 L |
