1971 De Tomaso Pantera vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 De Tomaso Pantera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 De Tomaso Pantera would be higher. At 5,766 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 De Tomaso Pantera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 De Tomaso Pantera (350 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 165 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (185 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 De Tomaso Pantera should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 450 kg more than 1971 De Tomaso Pantera.
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, 1971 De Tomaso Pantera (481 Nm) has 210 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (271 Nm). This means 1971 De Tomaso Pantera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 1971 De Tomaso Pantera has manual transmission. 1971 De Tomaso Pantera will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 De Tomaso Pantera | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | De Tomaso | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Pantera | SLK |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 5766 cc | 2293 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 350 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 481 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Top Speed | 280 km/hour | 225 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1600 kg | 2050 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2810 mm |
