1980 Honda Ballade vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Honda Ballade. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Honda Ballade would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK (268 HP) has 201 more horse power than 1980 Honda Ballade. (67 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1980 Honda Ballade. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 999 kg more than 1980 Honda Ballade. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Honda Ballade, 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK (510 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 402 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Honda Ballade. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Honda Ballade. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 1980 Honda Ballade has manual transmission. 1980 Honda Ballade will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Honda Ballade | 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Honda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Ballade | SLK |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1335 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 268 HP |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 510 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 72 mm | 97.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 92 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 786 kg | 1785 kg |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2330 mm | 2440 mm |
