1994 Fiat Panda vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 Fiat Panda. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 Fiat Panda would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK (201 HP) has 167 more horse power than 1994 Fiat Panda. (34 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1994 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 820 kg more than 1994 Fiat Panda. 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, 1994 Fiat Panda, 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 252 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Fiat Panda. (58 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Fiat Panda. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 1994 Fiat Panda has manual transmission. 1994 Fiat Panda 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:
| 1994 Fiat Panda | 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Panda | SLK |
| Year Released | 1994 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 769 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 201 HP |
| Torque | 58 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 680 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4135 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1816 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2170 mm | 2431 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 60 L |
