1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 1972 Porsche 914
To start off, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Porsche 914. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Porsche 914 would be higher. At 2,295 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK (190 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 1972 Porsche 914. (79 HP @ 4900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1972 Porsche 914. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 400 kg more than 1972 Porsche 914. 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK (280 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 144 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Porsche 914. (136 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Porsche 914.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 1972 Porsche 914 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Porsche |
| Model | SLK | 914 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2295 cc | 1679 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 136 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1325 kg | 925 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 61 L |
