2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 3,996 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 295 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK.
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 S (560 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 250 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK. (310 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK | 2003 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | CLK | S |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3198 cc | 3996 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 242 HP |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 560 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 236 km/hour | 245 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.3 seconds | 7.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1695 kg | 1990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 3110 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11 L/100km | 9.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 90 L |
