1954 Porsche 356 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 57 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 Porsche 356. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 Porsche 356 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK (182 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 123 more horse power than 1954 Porsche 356. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1954 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 620 kg more than 1954 Porsche 356. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 1954 Porsche 356 has manual transmission. 1954 Porsche 356 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1954 Porsche 356 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Porsche | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 356 | SLK |
| Year Released | 1954 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1487 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 815 kg | 1435 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3870 mm | 4135 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1816 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2431 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |
