1979 Lancia Delta vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK

To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Lancia Delta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Lancia Delta would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK (161 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1979 Lancia Delta. (85 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1979 Lancia Delta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 380 kg more than 1979 Lancia Delta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2002 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 Lancia Delta, 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK (234 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 111 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Lancia Delta. (123 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Lancia Delta.

Compare all specifications:

1979 Lancia Delta 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK
Make Lancia Mercedes-Benz
Model Delta SLK
Year Released 1979 2002
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1498 cc 1998 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 85 HP 161 HP
Engine RPM 5800 RPM 5300 RPM
Torque 123 Nm 234 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 2500 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 2 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 910 kg 1290 kg
Vehicle Length 3890 mm 4000 mm
Vehicle Width 1630 mm 1720 mm
Vehicle Height 1390 mm 1280 mm
Wheelbase Size 2480 mm 2410 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 59 L 70 L