1996 Lexus SC vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Lexus SC. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Lexus SC would be higher. At 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK (415 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 173 more horse power than 1996 Lexus SC. (242 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1996 Lexus SC. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 60 kg more than 1996 Lexus SC. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 (539 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 174 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Lexus SC. (365 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Lexus SC.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Lexus SC | 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Lexus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SC | SLK |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3969 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 242 HP | 415 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 539 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4102 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1793 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2431 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 70 L |
