1996 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier would be higher. At 5,437 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK (349 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 229 more horse power than 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier. (120 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 630 kg more than 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier, 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK (510 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 327 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier. (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier | 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Cavalier | SLK |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2190 cc | 5437 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 349 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 510 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1215 kg | 1845 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 70 L |
