1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 1981 Mercury Cougar
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mercury Cougar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mercury Cougar would be higher. At 3,797 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Mercury Cougar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK (185 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 1981 Mercury Cougar. (114 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1981 Mercury Cougar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 694 kg more than 1981 Mercury Cougar. 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK (271 Nm) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mercury Cougar. (237 Nm). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mercury Cougar.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 1981 Mercury Cougar | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercury |
| Model | SLK | Cougar |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2293 cc | 3797 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 237 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2050 kg | 1356 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2690 mm |
