2008 Mercedes-Benz R vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK. (167 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 520 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz R.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz R is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK. (245 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz R | 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | R | CLK |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 268 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1145 kg | 1665 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5160 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1660 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3220 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 62 L |
