1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 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 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 (109 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (94 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 25 kg more than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300.
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. Let's talk about torque, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK (271 Nm) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300. (185 Nm). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 has manual transmission. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 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 Mercedes-Benz 300 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 300 | SLK |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 2297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1435 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 88 L |
