2004 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,439 cc (12 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 191 more horse power than 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL. (302 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 124 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL. 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 SL (800 Nm) has 339 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL. (461 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SL | CL |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5439 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 800 Nm | 461 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2009 kg | 1885 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 88 L |
