2009 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (510 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 161 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (349 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 236 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL.
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 SL (830 Nm) has 380 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (450 Nm). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SL | SLK |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5513 cc | 3199 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 510 HP | 349 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 830 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1461 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 13.1 L/100km | 10.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 16.8 L/100km | 12.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 62 L |
