Germany vs Germany — 1936 vs 1999
| 540K Special Roadster | CLK GTR Strassenversion | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 180 hp | 612 hp |
| Torque | 380 lb-ft | 571 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 5,401 cc | 6,898 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 16.0 sec | 3.8 sec |
| Top Speed | 106 mph | 205 mph |
| ¼ Mile | — | 11.2 sec |
| Weight | 5,071 lbs | 3,175 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 3,290 mm | 2,745 mm |
| Length | 5,290 mm | 4,740 mm |
| Units Produced | 419 | 25 |
| Original MSRP | $14,000 | $1,500,000 |
| Value (Excellent) | $18,000,000 | $12,000,000 |
| Collectibility | 10/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 10/10 | 10/10 |
The 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR Strassenversion emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1936 Mercedes-Benz 540K Special Roadster counters with better value, 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.
Within the Mercedes-Benz stable, the 1936 Mercedes-Benz 540K Special Roadster and 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR Strassenversion represent different approaches to performance and purpose. Both carry the Mercedes-Benz badge, yet each carves out its own distinct identity. The 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR Strassenversion holds a clear advantage in raw power with 612 hp compared to 180 hp, a 432-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Mercedes-Benz 540K uses a Inline-8 Supercharged displacing 5,401 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 16.0 seconds. The Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 1896 lbs lighter. 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 540K's 419 examples.