1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 2,597 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E (161 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (134 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 450 kg more than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (190 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK has manual transmission. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 2003 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SLK | E |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.7 mm | 68.2 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 1720 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2890 mm |
