1971 Austin 1800 vs. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Austin 1800. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Austin 1800 would be higher. At 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK (228 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 142 more horse power than 1971 Austin 1800. (86 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1971 Austin 1800. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 261 kg more than 1971 Austin 1800. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2010 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 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1971 Austin 1800, 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, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK (299 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 159 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Austin 1800. (140 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Austin 1800.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Austin 1800 | 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Austin | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 1800 | SLK |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 299 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1194 kg | 1455 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4102 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1788 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1298 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2431 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 49 L | 70 L |
