1996 Honda Civic 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 Honda Civic. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Honda Civic would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK (228 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 116 more horse power than 1996 Honda Civic. (112 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1996 Honda Civic. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 235 kg more than 1996 Honda Civic. 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 Honda Civic, 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 (301 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 157 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Honda Civic. (144 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Honda Civic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Honda Civic | 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Honda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Civic | SLK |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1590 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 112 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 301 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 70 L |
