2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 5,441 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK (362 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 228 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (134 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 542 kg more than 1998 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK (510 Nm) has 320 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (190 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | CLK | SLK |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5441 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 362 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 510 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 78.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1812 kg | 1270 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 75 L |
