2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz CL
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz CL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz CL would be higher. At 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz CL (603 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 375 more horse power than 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (228 HP @ 6100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz CL should accelerate faster than 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
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 CL (1,000 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 700 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (300 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz CL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 2003 Mercedes-Benz CL has automatic transmission and 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK has manual transmission. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz CL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 2003 Mercedes-Benz CL | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SLK | CL |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 5980 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 603 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 1000 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 88 L |
