2003 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. Both 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL and 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK are equipped with a 5,439 cc engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 138 more horse power than 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (355 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 715 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 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 SL (700 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 190 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (510 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | SL | SLK |
Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5439 cc | 5439 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 3 valves |
Horse Power | 493 HP | 355 HP |
Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5750 RPM |
Torque | 700 Nm | 510 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.7 seconds | 4.9 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1955 kg | 1240 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1800 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1280 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2440 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.5 L/100km | 14.7 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 70 L |