1997 Chevrolet Corvette vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Chevrolet Corvette. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Chevrolet Corvette would be higher. At 5,666 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Chevrolet Corvette is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK (355 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Corvette. (345 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1997 Chevrolet Corvette. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 145 kg more than 1997 Chevrolet Corvette. 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK (500 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Chevrolet Corvette. (475 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Chevrolet Corvette. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 1997 Chevrolet Corvette has manual transmission. 1997 Chevrolet Corvette will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Chevrolet Corvette | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
Make | Chevrolet | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Corvette | SLK |
Year Released | 1997 | 2004 |
Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5666 cc | 5439 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 345 HP | 355 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5750 RPM |
Torque | 475 Nm | 500 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 11.0:1 |
Top Speed | 277 km/hour | 245 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1540 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1800 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1220 mm | 1280 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2440 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 70 L |