1980 Pontiac Firebird vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 4,300 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK (268 HP) has 133 more horse power than 1980 Pontiac Firebird. (135 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1980 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 140 kg more than 2008 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Pontiac Firebird | 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Pontiac | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Firebird | SLK |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4300 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine Bore Size | 95 mm | 92.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1605 kg | 1465 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5010 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2440 mm |
