1996 Lancia Kappa vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Lancia Kappa. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Lancia Kappa would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 1996 Lancia Kappa. (173 HP @ 6100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1996 Lancia Kappa. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 685 kg more than 1996 Lancia Kappa. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Lancia Kappa, 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Lancia Kappa. (230 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Lancia Kappa.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Lancia Kappa | 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Lancia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Kappa | SLK |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2451 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1520 kg | 2205 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4700 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2410 mm |
