1986 Fiat Croma vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Fiat Croma. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Fiat Croma would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Fiat Croma is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK (201 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1986 Fiat Croma. (154 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1986 Fiat Croma. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 320 kg more than 1986 Fiat Croma. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Fiat Croma, 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK (310 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Fiat Croma. (235 Nm @ 2350 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Fiat Croma. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 1986 Fiat Croma has manual transmission. 1986 Fiat Croma will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Fiat Croma | 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Croma | SLK |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 154 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2350 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Top Speed | 209 km/hour | 243 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4135 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1816 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2431 mm |
