1998 Lancia Kappa vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Lancia Kappa. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Lancia Kappa would be higher. At 1,994 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Lancia Kappa is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Lancia Kappa (202 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (161 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Lancia Kappa should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Lancia Kappa weights approximately 285 kg more than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Lancia Kappa, 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, 1998 Lancia Kappa (298 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (241 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Lancia Kappa will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 1998 Lancia Kappa has manual transmission. 1998 Lancia Kappa 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:
| 1998 Lancia Kappa | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Lancia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Kappa | SLK |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1994 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 202 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 241 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 85 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4700 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2440 mm |
