1983 Austin Maestro vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Austin Maestro. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Austin Maestro would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK (182 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 1983 Austin Maestro. (67 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1983 Austin Maestro. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 560 kg more than 1983 Austin Maestro. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 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 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 Austin Maestro, 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK (250 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Austin Maestro. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Austin Maestro. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 1983 Austin Maestro has manual transmission. 1983 Austin Maestro will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Austin Maestro | 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Austin | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Maestro | SLK |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1275 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 100 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Top Speed | 154 km/hour | 240 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 875 kg | 1435 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4135 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1816 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2431 mm |
