1980 Ford Taunus vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Ford Taunus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Ford Taunus would be higher. At 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK (409 HP) has 352 more horse power than 1980 Ford Taunus. (57 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1980 Ford Taunus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 590 kg more than 1980 Ford Taunus. 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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK (540 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 447 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Ford Taunus. (93 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Ford Taunus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Ford Taunus | 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Taunus | SLK |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1294 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 57 HP | 409 HP |
| Torque | 93 Nm | 540 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 98 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 90 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 4-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4146 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 2006 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2430 mm |
