1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML (286 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 152 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (134 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 1030 kg more than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML will offer significantly more control. 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML (511 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 321 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (190 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML has automatic transmission and 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK has manual transmission. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SLK | ML |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 286 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 511 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.7 mm | 92 mm |
| Top Speed | 231 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 2300 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 93 L |
