What is indicated by a slow cranking speed and excessive current draw?

A slow cranking speed combined with excessive current draw typically indicates that there is a mechanical issue with the engine itself that is making it difficult to turn over. When the engine is hard to crank, it can require more current to engage the starter motor, as the starter is working against increased resistance due to the mechanical load.

In this scenario, other potential influences like sulphated batteries or a shorted starter solenoid could lead to performance issues as well, but they wouldn't necessarily explain both the slow cranking speed and the excessive current draw simultaneously. Similarly, low viscosity engine oil might cause sluggish operation but typically would not cause the excessive current draw to the same extent. Therefore, the condition of the engine being hard to crank stands out as the most accurate interpretation of the symptoms described.