1973 Datsun Laurel vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Datsun Laurel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Datsun Laurel would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK (161 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1973 Datsun Laurel. (124 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1973 Datsun Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Datsun Laurel weights approximately 485 kg more than 2002 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK (234 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Datsun Laurel. (171 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Datsun Laurel. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 1973 Datsun Laurel has manual transmission. 1973 Datsun Laurel will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Datsun Laurel | 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Datsun | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Laurel | SLK |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 124 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 171 Nm | 234 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1775 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 70 L |
