Germany vs Germany — 1957 vs 2004
| 300 SL Roadster | CLK DTM AMG Coupe | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 215 hp | 582 hp |
| Torque | 203 lb-ft | 590 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 2,996 cc | 5,439 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 7.5 sec | 3.8 sec |
| Top Speed | 155 mph | 199 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 15.5 sec | 11.8 sec |
| Weight | 3,131 lbs | 3,748 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,400 mm | 2,715 mm |
| Length | 4,520 mm | 4,668 mm |
| Units Produced | 1,858 | 100 |
| Original MSRP | $11,000 | — |
| Value (Excellent) | $2,000,000 | $600,000 |
| Collectibility | 10/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 9/10 | 10/10 |
The 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK DTM AMG Coupe emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1957 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster counters with lighter weight, 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 1957 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster and 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK DTM AMG Coupe represent different approaches to performance and purpose. Both carry the Mercedes-Benz badge, yet each carves out its own distinct identity. The 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK DTM AMG Coupe holds a clear advantage in raw power with 582 hp compared to 215 hp, a 367-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 DTM AMG relies on a V8 Supercharged SOHC 24V with 5,439 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK DTM AMG Coupe edges ahead at 3.8 seconds versus 7.5 seconds. The Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 617 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 100 units built, the 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK DTM AMG Coupe is considerably scarcer than the Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster's 1,858 examples. On the collector market, the 1957 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster commands a significant premium over the 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK DTM AMG Coupe, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.