Germany vs Germany — 1957 vs 1999
| 300 SL Roadster | CLK GTR Strassenversion | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 215 hp | 612 hp |
| Torque | 203 lb-ft | 571 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 2,996 cc | 6,898 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 7.5 sec | 3.8 sec |
| Top Speed | 155 mph | 205 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 15.5 sec | 11.2 sec |
| Weight | 3,131 lbs | 3,175 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,400 mm | 2,745 mm |
| Length | 4,520 mm | 4,740 mm |
| Units Produced | 1,858 | 25 |
| Original MSRP | $11,000 | $1,500,000 |
| Value (Excellent) | $2,000,000 | $12,000,000 |
| Collectibility | 10/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 9/10 | 10/10 |
Numbers favor the 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR Strassenversion with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1957 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster offers better value, and has its own devoted following. For those who let their heart decide, either car delivers a rewarding ownership experience.
Mercedes-Benz has long offered a diverse lineup, and comparing the 1957 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster with the 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR Strassenversion highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. The 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR Strassenversion holds a clear advantage in raw power with 612 hp compared to 215 hp, a 397-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster uses a Inline-6 SOHC displacing 2,996 cc, while the Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR relies on a V12 DOHC with 6,898 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR Strassenversion edges ahead at 3.8 seconds versus 7.5 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 25 units built, the 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR Strassenversion is considerably scarcer than the Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster's 1,858 examples. On the collector market, the 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR Strassenversion commands a significant premium over the 1957 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.