Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR

vs

Porsche 918 Spyder

Germany vs Germany — 1997 vs 2013

Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR (1997)
Porsche 918 Spyder (2013)
Specifications
CLK GTR Strassenversion918 Spyder
Horsepower612 hp887 hp
Torque572 lb-ft944 lb-ft
Engine Size6,898 cc4,593 cc
0-60 mph3.4 sec2.5 sec
Top Speed214 mph214 mph
¼ Mile10.9 sec9.8 sec
Wheelbase2,670 mm2,730 mm
Length4,890 mm4,643 mm
Units Produced25918
Value (Excellent)$10,000,000$3,000,000
Collectibility5/105/10
Rarity10/108/10
The Verdict

The 2013 Porsche 918 Spyder emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, better value. The 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR Strassenversion counters with greater rarity, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.

Overview

The 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR Strassenversion and 2013 Porsche 918 Spyder stand as two of the most notable Hypercar cars from Modern classic. Both emerged during a period of intense competition, and choosing between them remains a passionate debate among collectors. The 2013 Porsche 918 Spyder holds a clear advantage in raw power with 887 hp compared to 612 hp, a 275-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR uses a V12 SOHC 36V displacing 6,898 cc, while the Porsche 918 Spyder relies on a V8 DOHC 32V + 2 Electric Motors with 4,593 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 2013 Porsche 918 Spyder edges ahead at 2.5 seconds versus 3.4 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 25 units built, the 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR Strassenversion is considerably scarcer than the Porsche 918 Spyder's 918 examples. On the collector market, the 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR Strassenversion commands a significant premium over the 2013 Porsche 918 Spyder, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.