1974 Mazda RX-4 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Mazda RX-4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mazda RX-4 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1974 Mazda RX-4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK (192 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1974 Mazda RX-4. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1974 Mazda RX-4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 276 kg more than 1974 Mazda RX-4. 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK (271 Nm) has 106 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Mazda RX-4. (165 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Mazda RX-4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Mazda RX-4 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | RX-4 | SLK |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 2307 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 192 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 1386 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2410 mm |
