1974 Austin 1800 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Austin 1800. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Austin 1800 would be higher. At 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Austin 1800 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK (201 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 1974 Austin 1800. (86 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1974 Austin 1800. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 310 kg more than 1974 Austin 1800. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 Austin 1800, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK (310 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 173 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Austin 1800. (137 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Austin 1800.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Austin 1800 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Austin | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 1800 | SLK |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4135 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1816 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2431 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 49 L | 60 L |
