1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 10 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 5,513 cc, 2008 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 910 kg more than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz S 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz S 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz S (830 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 640 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (190 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 2008 Mercedes-Benz S 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. 2008 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 2008 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SLK | S |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 5513 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 830 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.7 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.4:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 231 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 2180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 5210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1480 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1880 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 3170 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 90 L |
