1983 Ford Telstar vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK

To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Ford Telstar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Ford Telstar would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK (355 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 261 more horse power than 1983 Ford Telstar. (94 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1983 Ford Telstar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 660 kg more than 1983 Ford Telstar. 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, 1983 Ford Telstar, 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 (511 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 353 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Ford Telstar. (158 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Ford Telstar. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 1983 Ford Telstar has manual transmission. 1983 Ford Telstar 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:

1983 Ford Telstar 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK
Make Ford Mercedes-Benz
Model Telstar SLK
Year Released 1983 2006
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1998 cc 5439 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 94 HP 355 HP
Engine RPM 5000 RPM 5750 RPM
Torque 158 Nm 511 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 4000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 2 seats
Vehicle Weight 1030 kg 1690 kg
Vehicle Length 4390 mm 4090 mm
Vehicle Width 1700 mm 1800 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1280 mm
Wheelbase Size 2520 mm 2410 mm