1958 Abarth 500 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 50 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Abarth 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Abarth 500 would be higher. At 1,795 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 945 kg more than 1958 Abarth 500.
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. Let's talk about torque, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK (240 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 208 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 Abarth 500. (32 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 Abarth 500.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 Abarth 500 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Abarth | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 500 | SLK |
| Year Released | 1958 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 479 cc | 1795 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 20 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 32 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 78.7 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 445 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 2980 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1330 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 27 L | 70 L |
