1998 Lada Samara II vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Lada Samara II. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Lada Samara II would be higher. At 1,795 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 420 kg more than 1998 Lada Samara II.
Because 2008 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Lada Samara II, 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK (240 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Lada Samara II. (110 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Lada Samara II. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 1998 Lada Samara II has manual transmission. 1998 Lada Samara II will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Lada Samara II | 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Lada | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Samara II | SLK |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1499 cc | 1795 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 970 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2440 mm |
