1971 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. (168 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 692 kg more than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SL | SLK |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2778 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 2052 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2410 mm |
