1980 Ferrari 308 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Ferrari 308. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Ferrari 308 would be higher. At 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK (349 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 109 more horse power than 1980 Ferrari 308. (240 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1980 Ferrari 308. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 177 kg more than 1980 Ferrari 308. 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 (450 Nm) has 190 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Ferrari 308. (260 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Ferrari 308.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Ferrari 308 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Ferrari | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 308 | SLK |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2927 cc | 3199 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 349 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1284 kg | 1461 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1130 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 74 L | 62 L |
