1990 Toyota Starlet vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Toyota Starlet. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Toyota Starlet would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK (298 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 245 more horse power than 1990 Toyota Starlet. (53 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1990 Toyota Starlet. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 810 kg more than 1990 Toyota Starlet. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2013 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 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 Toyota Starlet, 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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK (370 Nm @ 5250 RPM) has 293 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Toyota Starlet. (77 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Toyota Starlet.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Toyota Starlet | 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Toyota | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Starlet | SLK |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 999 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 298 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 77 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 4-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 730 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3730 mm | 4134 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 2006 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1303 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2430 mm |
