1980 Holden Statesman 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 Holden Statesman. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Holden Statesman would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK (355 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 186 more horse power than 1980 Holden Statesman. (169 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1980 Holden Statesman. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Holden Statesman weights approximately 182 kg more than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
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 (500 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 139 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Holden Statesman. (361 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Holden Statesman.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Holden Statesman | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Holden | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Statesman | SLK |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5042 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 169 HP | 355 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 361 Nm | 500 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1722 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5160 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2440 mm |
