1988 Ford Falcon vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Ford Falcon. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Ford Falcon would be higher. At 3,273 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Ford Falcon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK (160 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1988 Ford Falcon. (120 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Falcon. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 16 kg more than 1988 Ford Falcon. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, both vehicles can yield 240 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Ford Falcon | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Falcon | SLK |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3273 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2300 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1374 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2440 mm |
