2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren (618 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 524 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (94 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren weights approximately 390 kg more than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 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 SLR McLaren (780 Nm) has 509 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (271 Nm). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren | 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SLR McLaren | SLK |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5439 cc | 2297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 618 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 780 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1825 kg | 1435 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 97 L | 88 L |
