1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 2003 Saab 03-Sep
To start off, 2003 Saab 03-Sep is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. Both 1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK and 2003 Saab 03-Sep are equipped with a 1,998 cc engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Saab 03-Sep (250 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 116 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (134 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Saab 03-Sep should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Saab 03-Sep weights approximately 395 kg more than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Saab 03-Sep, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 Saab 03-Sep (370 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 180 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (190 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Saab 03-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 2003 Saab 03-Sep | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saab |
| Model | SLK | 03-Sep |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 250 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.7 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.4:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 1665 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2610 mm |
