Germany vs Germany — 1956 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 | 8.8 sec | 3.8 sec |
| Top Speed | 140 mph | 205 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 16.2 sec | 11.2 sec |
| Weight | 3,130 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 | $10,970 | $1,500,000 |
| Value (Excellent) | $2,000,000 | $12,000,000 |
| Collectibility | 10/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 9/10 | 10/10 |
The 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR Strassenversion emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL 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 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL 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 215 hp, a 397-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Mercedes-Benz 300 SL 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 8.8 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's 1,858 examples. On the collector market, the 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR Strassenversion commands a significant premium over the 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.