2008 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK LM
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK LM. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK LM would be higher. At 5,000 cc (12 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK LM is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 435 kg more than 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK LM.
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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK LM (773 Nm) has 313 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL. (460 Nm). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK LM will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK LM has manual transmission. 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK LM will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK LM | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SL | CLK LM |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 4966 cc | 5000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 664 HP |
| Torque | 460 Nm | 773 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1845 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1170 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 60 L |
