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 2,295 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 42 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. (148 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 520 kg more than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
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 (330 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (280 Nm @ 2500 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 | 2295 cc | 2148 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1325 kg | 1845 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
