1961 Mazda R 360 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 47 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Mazda R 360. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Mazda R 360 would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK (355 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 339 more horse power than 1961 Mazda R 360. (16 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1961 Mazda R 360. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 1160 kg more than 1961 Mazda R 360. 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. Let's talk about torque, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK (510 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 488 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Mazda R 360. (22 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Mazda R 360.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Mazda R 360 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | R 360 | SLK |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Size | 356 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 16 HP | 355 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 22 Nm | 510 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 60 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 63 mm | 92 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 380 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 2990 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1300 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1770 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
