2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (224 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL.
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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (315 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | CLK | SL |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 3197 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 268 HP | 224 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92.9 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 10.1:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 80 L |
