1969 Riley Kestrel vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Riley Kestrel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Riley Kestrel would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 204 more horse power than 1969 Riley Kestrel. (64 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1969 Riley Kestrel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 555 kg more than 1969 Riley Kestrel. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1969 Riley Kestrel, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 254 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Riley Kestrel. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Riley Kestrel.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Riley Kestrel | 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Riley | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Kestrel | SLK |
| Year Released | 1969 | 2008 |
| Engine Size | 1275 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 910 kg | 1465 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3730 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2380 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 25 L | 70 L |
