1973 Datsun Laurel vs. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 37 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 1,988 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Datsun Laurel is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK (182 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1973 Datsun Laurel. (124 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 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 340 kg more than 2010 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, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK (250 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Datsun Laurel. (171 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Datsun Laurel. 2010 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. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Datsun Laurel | 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Datsun | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Laurel | SLK |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 124 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 171 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Top Speed | 171 km/hour | 240 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 13.9 seconds | 7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1775 kg | 1435 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4135 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1816 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2431 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 60 L |
