1972 Ford Gran Torino vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Ford Gran Torino. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Ford Gran Torino would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK (361 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 264 more horse power than 1972 Ford Gran Torino. (97 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1972 Ford Gran Torino. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Ford Gran Torino weights approximately 104 kg more than 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
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 (500 Nm) has 255 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Ford Gran Torino. (245 Nm). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Ford Gran Torino.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Ford Gran Torino | 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Gran Torino | SLK |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4095 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 97 HP | 361 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 500 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1645 kg | 1541 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5270 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 87 L | 70 L |
