1961 Mercedes-Benz 300 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 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 1961 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 61 kg more than 1961 Mercedes-Benz 300.
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, 1961 Mercedes-Benz 300 (275 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (240 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1961 Mercedes-Benz 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 1961 Mercedes-Benz 300 has manual transmission. 1961 Mercedes-Benz 300 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Mercedes-Benz 300 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 300 | SLK |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 1795 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.1 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 78.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10 seconds | 8.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1329 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 100 L | 70 L |
