Germany vs Germany — 1954 vs 2004
| 300SL Gullwing | 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 | 7.4 sec | 3.8 sec |
| Top Speed | 161 mph | 199 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 15.2 sec | 11.8 sec |
| Weight | 2,855 lbs | 3,748 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,400 mm | 2,715 mm |
| Length | 4,520 mm | 4,668 mm |
| Units Produced | 1,400 | 100 |
| Original MSRP | $6,820 | — |
| Value (Excellent) | $3,000,000 | $600,000 |
| Collectibility | 10/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 9/10 | 10/10 |
Numbers favor the 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK DTM AMG Coupe with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1954 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing offers lighter weight, 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 1954 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing with the 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK DTM AMG Coupe highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. 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 300SL uses a Inline-6 SOHC (M198) 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 7.4 seconds. The Mercedes-Benz 300SL carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 893 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 300SL's 1,400 examples. On the collector market, the 1954 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing commands a significant premium over the 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK DTM AMG Coupe, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.