1978 Ford LTD vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Ford LTD. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Ford LTD would be higher. At 5,763 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 Ford LTD is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK (361 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1978 Ford LTD. (296 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1978 Ford LTD. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Ford LTD weights approximately 249 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, 1978 Ford LTD (525 Nm) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (500 Nm). This means 1978 Ford LTD will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Ford LTD | 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | LTD | SLK |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5763 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 296 HP | 361 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 525 Nm | 500 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1790 kg | 1541 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5370 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2440 mm |
