1997 Ford F-150 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 Ford F-150. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Ford F-150 would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK (355 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 138 more horse power than 1997 Ford F-150. (217 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford F-150. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford F-150 weights approximately 565 kg more than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Because 1997 Ford F-150 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Ford F-150 will offer significantly more control. 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 107 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford F-150. (393 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford F-150. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 1997 Ford F-150 has manual transmission. 1997 Ford F-150 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 Ford F-150 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | F-150 | SLK |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4605 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 355 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 393 Nm | 500 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2105 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5230 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3050 mm | 2440 mm |
