2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK vs. 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. (228 HP @ 6400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 95 kg more than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. (267 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK has automatic transmission and 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL has manual transmission. 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK | 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | CLK | SL |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 2962 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 268 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 267 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1690 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 80 L |
