2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SLK | SL |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 268 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |
