1978 Honda Civic vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Honda Civic. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Honda Civic would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 215 more horse power than 1978 Honda Civic. (53 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1978 Honda Civic. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 787 kg more than 1978 Honda Civic. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Honda Civic, 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 271 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Honda Civic. (79 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Honda Civic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Honda Civic | 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Honda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Civic | SLK |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1169 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 79 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 678 kg | 1465 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2210 mm | 2440 mm |
