1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 1982 Opel Manta
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Opel Manta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Opel Manta would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK (134 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1982 Opel Manta. (110 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1982 Opel Manta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 205 kg more than 1982 Opel Manta. 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 (190 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Opel Manta. (161 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Opel Manta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 1982 Opel Manta | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | SLK | Manta |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1982 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1979 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 110 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 161 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 95 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.7 mm | 69.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.4:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Top Speed | 231 km/hour | 193 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 1065 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2520 mm |
