1990 Holden Barina vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Holden Barina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Holden Barina would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK (300 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 233 more horse power than 1990 Holden Barina. (67 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1990 Holden Barina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 775 kg more than 1990 Holden Barina. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 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 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 Holden Barina, 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK (359 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 255 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Holden Barina. (104 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Holden Barina. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 1990 Holden Barina has manual transmission. 1990 Holden Barina will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Holden Barina | 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Holden | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Barina | SLK |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1322 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 300 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 359 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 730 kg | 1505 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3780 mm | 4102 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1788 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1298 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2250 mm | 2431 mm |
