2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,799 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL (190 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK. (167 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 185 kg more than 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK. 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK has manual transmission. 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK | 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | CLK | SL |
Year Released | 2002 | 1997 |
Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2597 cc | 2799 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 167 HP | 190 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 240 Nm | 270 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 89.9 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 68.2 mm | 73.5 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1575 kg | 1760 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4470 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |