1978 Ford Mustang 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 Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 2,786 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK (160 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1978 Ford Mustang. (108 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1978 Ford Mustang. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 140 kg more than 1978 Ford Mustang. 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK (230 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Ford Mustang. (192 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Ford Mustang.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Ford Mustang | 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Mustang | SLK |
Year Released | 1978 | 2005 |
Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2786 cc | 2032 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 108 HP | 160 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5300 RPM |
Torque | 192 Nm | 230 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 92.9 mm | 89.9 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 68.5 mm | 78.7 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1365 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2410 mm |