1984 Ford Orion vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Ford Orion. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Ford Orion 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 281 more horse power than 1984 Ford Orion. (74 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1984 Ford Orion.
Because 2004 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 Ford Orion, 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK (500 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 389 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Ford Orion. (111 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Ford Orion. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 1984 Ford Orion has manual transmission. 1984 Ford Orion will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Ford Orion | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Orion | SLK |
| Year Released | 1984 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1392 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 355 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 111 Nm | 500 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2440 mm |
