1985 Lancia Delta vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Lancia Delta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Lancia Delta would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK (161 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1985 Lancia Delta. (75 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1985 Lancia Delta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 355 kg more than 1985 Lancia Delta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 Lancia Delta, 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK (234 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 129 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Lancia Delta. (105 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Lancia Delta. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 1985 Lancia Delta has manual transmission. 1985 Lancia Delta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Lancia Delta | 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Lancia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Delta | SLK |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1302 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 105 Nm | 234 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.4 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 55.5 mm | 78.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.1:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 935 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2410 mm |
